A journey to meet Empress Saimei

Japan HeritageNamode-odori Dance

This rain-making ritual has been passed down through generations at Asuka Kawakamini Imasu Usutaki Himenomikoto Shrine, ever since it was performed in an upstream section of the Asuka River by Empress Kogyoku (who later in life became Empress Saimei). The form of present-day Namode-odori performances was derived from ema (wooden plaques) offered to the shrine in bygone days and from the memories of elderly locals. The unique music that accompanies the dance will surely stick in your ears!

Information

Address
Nara Prefecture Complex of Man'yo Culture
Hours
13:30–14:10, 4th Sat. of the month in April–June, Sept.–Nov.
Access
Take the Nara Kotsu bus and get off at Man'yo-bunkakan, or take the Akakame bus and get off at Man'yo-bunkakan Nishiguchi

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