Takachiho Shrine & Holy Dance: Takachiho is the place where several mythological stories, such as Amano-Iwato and the Holy Grandson Landing on Earth, are staged. Because of this, each area in the Takachiho district has a yearly holy dance performance in its sacred place. Takachiho Shrine is one of these shrines showcasing holy dances in the area, and it shows visitors the Kagura holy dance every evening. The dance is based on mythological stories.

Four representative performances are showcased: No. 24, Tajikarao; No. 25, Uzume; No. 26, Todori; and No. 20, Goshintai.

1. Tajikarao-no-Mikoto, who is said to be a god known for his strength, makes an appearance. The dance of Tajikarao-no-Mikoto is characterized by its power. Also noteworthy is the humorous way he stands by his ear at Ama-no-Iwato, where Amaterasu hides.

2. Amenouzume, the greatest dancer in the high heaven, takes an active part. In mythology, she is said to have taken off her robe and danced madly, but her dance in the Kagura is graceful and beautiful.

3. In Todori, the mask of Tenrikio-no-Mikoto changes from white to red to express his strength and roughness. The dances performed by Tenrikio-no-Mikoto, with his hair in disarray, are said to cause the performers to lose themselves in the heat of the performance.

4. The sacred dance is also known as the “Sakekoshi no Mai” or “Kunisami-no-Mai” (Dance of the Land’s Birth). The two deities, Izanagi and Izanami, perform a dance that represents the union of a man and a woman. It is a so-called “wet dance,” but it is said to have become more elegant over time.

More about Amanoiwato Story, Click here.