Tokyo Tama Tourist Site

What is the Dance of the Phoenix in Hinode Town?

Each year, on the weekend closest to September 29, Hinode Town celebrates what is locally known as the “Hirai Festival.” During this time, two autumn grand festivals are held at Kasuga Shrine and Hachiman Shrine, serving as a cherished seasonal event that heralds the arrival of autumn in the community.

At the Kasuga Shrine festival, two traditional dances are dedicated to the gods. Although their exact origins are unknown, the performances known as the “Dance of the Phoenix” (Hōō no Mai) and the “Yakko Dance” (Yakko no Mai) have long been performed as prayers for rain and for protection against epidemics and misfortune.

The Dance of the Phoenix reflects the performance style of the Kansai region, while the Yakko Dance follows the traditions of Edo. This unique combination is considered rare even within Japan. In 2006, the tradition was designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. In 2022, it was further recognized when it was included among 41 traditional folk performing arts collectively inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity under the title “Furyu-odori.”

During the two-day festival on Saturday and Sunday, a procession led by a decorative Hanagasa Mantō lantern visits parishioners’ neighborhoods and performs at several locations throughout the community. On Saturday, the procession takes place from late afternoon into the evening, while on Sunday it continues from around 11:00 a.m. until nighttime.

The Dance of the Phoenix and the Yakko Dance

When the procession arrives at a performance site, the Yakko Dance is performed first. Elementary school boys dance around a central drum while carrying white folding fans and wooden swords. As they take turns reciting traditional lines, their charming performance often brings smiles to the faces of spectators.

Next comes the Dance of the Phoenix, performed by local youths of junior high school age and older. Ten dancers take part: five wearing golden phoenix crowns and five wearing red hoods. Their dynamic movements include powerful steps toward the central drum and sweeping circular formations performed in low stances. The result is a vigorous and impressive display that engages the entire body.

The drums and flutes are played by older members of the community, many of whom likely performed the dances themselves in earlier years. As they accompany the younger generation with festival music, the entire community comes together to pray for abundant harvests and protection from disease and misfortune.

Meanwhile, the annual festival at Hachiman Shrine features five elaborately decorated festival floats parading through town. One of the highlights is the competitive musical performance known as Kiai, held along Hirai Shuku Street. Near the Nakahirai Bus Stop, all five floats gather together, and the exchange of festival music between them creates an impressive spectacle. Illuminated against the darkness of the night, the floats appear almost magical, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere.

Event Period	Weekend closest to September 29 each year
Official Website	https://www.town.hinode.tokyo.jp/ Note:Event dates may vary from year to year. Please contact the shrine or organizers for the latest schedule.
Access	• Approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Fussa Station • Approximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Musashi-Hikida Station
Photo Courtesy	Takako Mogaki