Sagimai Dance Performances

Elegant dances kept alive for centuries in the remote mountains of Shimane

Shimane, a prefecture located in the remote mountains of japan, is home to a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved for centuries. One of the most fascinating aspects of Shimane’s cultural traditions is its elegant dances, which have been passed down from generation to generation. These dances, known as Sagimai or the Heron Dance, originated at the famous Gion Festival in Kyoto but disappeared from there for centuries. However, in Tsuwano, a small town in Shimane, the dance has been kept alive to the present day.

The Gion Festival, one of Japan’s most famous festivals, dates back over a thousand years and is held annually in Kyoto. It is a celebration of the Yasaka Shrine, which is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto. The festival is known for its elaborate floats, traditional music, and lively dances. Among the dances performed at the festival is the Sagimai, or the Heron Dance.

The Heron Dance is a mesmerizing performance that mimics the movements of graceful white herons. Two dancers dressed in elaborate costumes gracefully move their bodies to the sounds of accompanying flutes, drums, bells, and singers. The dance is accompanied by two attendants with bright red hair who dance and circle around the main dancers, twirling batons. Two musicians with small hand drums also join in the dance, adding a rhythmic element to the performance.

What makes the Heron Dance truly remarkable is the intricate costumes worn by the dancers. The wings of the heron dancers are composed of 39 feathers made of wood, which give the dancers an ethereal and otherworldly appearance. The long-necked headpieces further enhance the dramatic effect of the dance. The dancers are not the only ones dressed in period costumes; even the spectators who participate in the procession are dressed in traditional attire. Some carry tall “umbrellas” topped with birds in their nests, adding to the overall pageantry of the event.

In recent years, the Heron Dance in Tsuwano has seen the addition of a new performance called the “Chick Dance.” This dance is performed by scores of young local schoolgirls who join the procession. The addition of the Chick Dance has brought a new energy and vibrancy to the traditional event, attracting even more visitors each year.

The Heron Dance is performed at 11 different locations around Tsuwano. The dance starts at the Yasaka Shrine, which is located below the famous Taikodani Inari Shrine. The procession then moves through the town, allowing spectators to enjoy the approach of the dancers and follow along to the next location. Many locals join in the procession, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

To witness the Heron Dance, visitors can easily travel to Tsuwano from Yamaguchi. The Yamaguchi Line offers a convenient mode of transportation, with the journey taking a little over an hour. Once in Tsuwano, finding a spot to enjoy the dance and procession is easy, as the performances take place at various locations throughout the town.

The Heron Dance is held annually on July 20 and 27, during which Tsuwano comes alive with vibrant colors, lively music, and the enchanting movements of the dancers. The festival attracts both locals and tourists who come to experience this unique cultural tradition firsthand. It is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the people of Tsuwano, who have kept the Heron Dance alive for centuries.

In conclusion, the Heron Dance, also known as Sagimai, is a cultural tradition that has been preserved for centuries in the remote mountains of Shimane. Originating from the famous Gion Festival in Kyoto, the dance disappeared from there but found a new home in Tsuwano. The dance is a mesmerizing performance that mimics the movements of graceful white herons, accompanied by traditional music and elaborate costumes. The addition of the Chick Dance has brought new life to the event, attracting more visitors each year. Witnessing the Heron Dance in Tsuwano is a unique and unforgettable experience that allows one to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Shimane.

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