Dainichidō Bugaku (大日堂舞楽) – January 2, 2026 | Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture

Experience the Dainichidō Bugaku (大日堂舞楽), a rare and sacred ritual dance performed on January 2, 2026, at Dainichidō Hall in Kazuno City (鹿角市), Akita Prefecture, Japan. This ancient tradition is part of the region’s New Year religious ceremonies and has been officially designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan.

Dainichidō Bugaku is believed to have been introduced from the imperial court to northern Japan during the early Heian period. Unlike court bugaku preserved in temples and palaces, this local form has been passed down within the community, performed by residents rather than professional dancers. The dances are offered as ritual prayers for peace, good harvests, protection from disasters, and the well-being of the local population.

Each dance is performed in traditional costumes and masks, accompanied by classical music, and follows strict ceremonial rules. The event takes place annually during the New Year period, making it one of the most significant cultural observances in northern Akita.

This video documents the January 2, 2026 performance, capturing the atmosphere, choreography, and setting of this centuries-old folk performing art at its original location.

📍 Event Details

Festival: Dainichidō Bugaku (大日堂舞楽)
Date: January 2, 2026
Location: Dainichidō, Kazuno City (鹿角市), Akita Prefecture, Japan
Cultural Status: Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan
Occasion: Annual New Year ritual ceremonies

#DainichidoBugaku #大日堂舞楽 #KazunoCity #AkitaPrefecture #JapaneseCulture #TraditionalDance #NewYearJapan #IntangibleCulturalHeritage #FolkPerformingArts #JapanFestivals