Takachiho-no-Yokagura

Takachiho-no-Yokagura is a Shinto ritual which has been dedicated to Ujigami-sama

(a local god) from November to February for each settlement since a long time ago.

For the people who cannot enjoy Takachiho-no-Yokagura, leading 4 episodes are

performed from 8pm to 9pm at Takachiho Shrine Kagura-den Hall throghout the year.

First three episodes (The dance of Tajikarao, Uzume, Totori) are based on Iwato

Mythology. The dance of Goshitai is a dance of a married couple (Izanagi and

Izanami) living happily together. It expresses a prayer for a rich harvest, happily

married, smooth delivery and pregnancy.

Hakata-za, in Fukuoka-city

Hakata-za is the theater for Kabuki plays and is located in the Hakata Riverain in Nakasu
It was originally constructed in 1996.

Kabuki is one of Japanese traditional stage arts along with Nho, Kyogen and Bunraku.

It is said to have originated in Kyoto with a woman named Okuni at the beginning of the

17th century. However, it is now performed only by male actors, so it amazing that the very

first performance was by a woman.

Hinamatsuri, girls Festival

Hinadoll is displayed at the Hina matsuri ( girls Festival) to celebrate for family with young

girls to pray for their good health and happiness.

Hina matsuri is a traditional Japanese event that announces the arrival of spring and

are held many places.

Sumo

Sumo is a Japanese traditional martial art, which is the match of two Sumo 
wrestlers in the round ring called Dohyo.

The winner is one who first makes his opponent step outside of the ring or 
into touching the ground with anything other than the sole of feet, 
there are 48 wining techniques.

Professional Sumo Tournament is held six times a year, 

in Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka-city.

Fukuoka Tournament is held at Fukuoka Kokusai Center in November.

Hatsu-moude, 初詣

Hatsu-moude is one of Japanese custom that first visit of the year to Shrines

or/and Temples.

Literal meaning of Hatsu is first and moude is pray.

Most Japanese people visit Shrines and/or Temples at the beginning of the year

to pray for happiness for the year.

What they pray are variety such as safety and health of family, business prosperity,

traffic safety, a good harvest in agriculture, a big catch in the fishing industry,

prevention of natural disasters, etc.