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January 20, 2026 at 11:30 am
Event date:
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January 20, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Kowakamai Dance (幸若舞) is one of Japan’s oldest performing arts, with a history spanning over 700 years. Originating in the southern Fukuoka Prefecture, this ritual dance predates Noh and Kabuki, and many elements of Kowakamai can be traced in these later traditional Japanese performances.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Historically, Kowakamai was performed during Shinto ceremonies and festival events to honor the gods and bring blessings to the community. It was a combination of chanting, fan movements, and theatrical storytelling, often performed by skilled traveling dancers.
In modern times, the dance is preserved as a cultural treasure and has been designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan, ensuring that its techniques, music, and performance style are maintained for future generations.
Overview
The Kowakamai Dance 2026 will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, starting at 11:30 AM at Ōe Tenmangū Shrine in Miyama village, Fukuoka Prefecture.
The performance lasts several hours and consists of multiple acts, each showcasing different ritual dances, chants, and ceremonial movements. Visitors will witness dancers using fans to express prayers and storytelling, combined with traditional chanting that has been handed down for centuries.
The event is free to attend and draws a small but devoted audience, creating an intimate cultural experience. While the chanting may be largely incomprehensible to foreign visitors, the costumes, movements, and overall ritual convey the depth and beauty of Japan’s ancient performing arts.
This festival offers a rare opportunity to witness Japan’s oldest dance form in its authentic local setting, with the backdrop of a historic shrine and traditional village landscape.
Highlights
- 700-year-old traditional dance rooted in Shinto rituals.
- Predates Noh and Kabuki, showing the origins of Japanese performing arts.
- Elaborate costumes and ceremonial props enhance visual appeal.
- Chanting and ritualistic fan movements that praise the gods.
- Small, community-centered event offering an intimate cultural experience.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Witness authentic, centuries-old Japanese dance rarely performed today.
- Gain insight into the origins of Noh and Kabuki through live performance.
- Enjoy a cultural and spiritual experience in a peaceful village setting.
- Perfect for travelers interested in Japanese history, rituals, and performing arts.
- Opportunity to connect with locals and experience small-town festival hospitality.
If you are coming to Japan or already in Japan, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket bookings — just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Time: Starts at 11:30 AM (typically lasts several hours)
The performance includes:
- Opening prayers and ceremonial preparation by shrine priests.
- Sequential dance acts with chanting and fan movements.
- Final prayers and blessings for the audience and local community.
Pricing
Entry Fee: Free
No reservations are required. Donations to the shrine are optional but appreciated, helping maintain the shrine and support traditional cultural events.
Location
Venue: Ōe Tenmangū Shrine, Miyama, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan
How to Get There:
- By Public Transport: Take a train or bus to Miyama village, then walk to Ōe Tenmangū Shrine.
- By Car: Parking is limited; early arrival is recommended for those driving.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Miyama village or nearby Fukuoka cities, with options including traditional ryokans, guesthouses, and small hotels. Staying locally allows easy access to the shrine and the chance to explore surrounding cultural sites.
Average nightly rates range from ¥6,000 to ¥15,000, depending on accommodation type and booking season. Early reservations are recommended, especially during festival periods.
FAQs
When is the Kowakamai Dance 2026 held?
Tuesday, January 20, 2026, starting at 11:30 AM.
How long does the performance last?
The performance typically lasts several hours and consists of multiple acts.
Is there an entry fee to watch the dance?
No, the event is free to attend, though donations to the shrine are welcome.
Where is the festival held?
At Ōe Tenmangū Shrine in Miyama, southern Fukuoka Prefecture.
What can visitors expect from the performance?
Expect chanting, fan dances, ceremonial rituals, and intricate costumes, offering a rare glimpse into Japan’s oldest dance traditions.
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