Takachiho shrine
The shrine has long history, established 1900 years ago, worship the deity of agriculture,
marriage, traffic safety and protection against misfortunes. Located just west of the town
center, is nestled in a grove of tall cedars. During the day the shrine’s nondescript, unpainted
buildings blend in naturally with the surrounding trees. The light that filters through, brings
with it an air of calm, peaceful reverence.
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Today this legend is reenacted as Yokagura in a series of 33 episodes depicting the divine
quarrel as well as other deeds of the gods. On winter weekends, people gather to watch
all-night performances of these episodes at different locations each week, sometimes at
private homes. The performances are held on Saturday evenings from mid November to
mid February.
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A massively shortened version of Takachiho Yokagura is performed for tourists every night
throughout the year at the Takachiho Shrine. The one-hour show consists of just a few
scenes of the story, performed by masked dancers and accompanied by traditional instrument.
It is held at the Yokagura performance hall, just a few steps from the shrine’s main building.
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General information
| Address |
1037 Mitai, Takachiho-cho, Nishi-Usuki-gun, Miyazaki-prefecture |
| Access |
100 minutes by a vehicle from Kumamoto IC 130 minutes by a vehicle from Oita IC 130 minutes by a vehicle from Miyazaki |
