Kagura-den (Kagura Dance Hall) ⛩️💃

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck

Address:
2307 Sannai, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture 321-1431, Japan 📍
(Located in the Nikko Futarasan Jinja area, near Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple, about a 5-minute walk from the Taiyuin/Futarasanjinja-mae bus stop.)

Atmosphere/Location:
Kagura-den is the sacred building of Futarasan Jinja Shrine, dedicated to Nikko's three sacred mountain deities: Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro. 🏔️ The building is a traditional vermilion wooden structure, located near the Rōmon Gate and Haiden, surrounded by a dense cedar forest. 🌲 The atmosphere is quiet yet mystical. The scent of incense mixed with the mountain breeze creates a sacred and calming feeling. 🙏
Kagura-den hosts Kagura, a ritual dance dedicated to the gods, often performed at major events such as the Yayoi Matsuri (April 13–17). 🎶 Even on days when there are no performances, The building itself remains a worthwhile visit, reflecting its authentic Shinto roots and spirituality. However, there are few English-language signs, and it can get quite crowded during peak seasons like autumn. 🙈

Highlights:
• Kagura Performance: Kagura is an ancient ritual passed down from Japanese legend, performed by female priestesses (miko) accompanied by musical instruments such as drums and flutes. 💃 It is held during important festivals such as the Yayoi Matsuri, which features colorful cherry blossom floats. 🎉
• Traditional Shinto Architecture: The building's simple yet powerful design, using vermilion wood, blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature. 🛕 The open-air structure complements the outdoor performances and the mountain atmosphere.
• Sacredness: Kagura symbolizes communication with the gods, giving Kagura-den a rich ritual and cultural significance. 👘
• Prime Location: Located near Rōmon Gate, Haiden, and Shin'en Garden, it's convenient for visitors seeking a comprehensive view of Futarasan Jinja. 🌳
• Autumn: The trees surrounding Kagura-den turn vibrant reds and oranges in October and November. Create a warm and romantic atmosphere, perfect for taking photos. 📸

Average price per person:
• Kagura-den and Futarasan Jinja Shrine entrance fee: Free 🎉
• Shin'en Garden (near Kagura-den): 200 yen (≈50 baht) 🌳
• Bus fare from Tobu Nikko/JR Nikko Station to Taiyuin/Futarasanjinja-mae: 320 yen (≈75 baht) or a one-day pass for 600 yen 🚌
• Tobu Nikko Pass (4 days): 4,600 yen (≈1,100 baht) including trains and buses within the Nikko area.

Rating:
⭐ 4/5
Nikko Futarasan Jinja Shrine's Kagura-den isn't the largest, but it reflects the roots of Shinto rituals intensely. 🌟 Witnessing the Kagura dance during the festival is a unique and rare experience. 💃 Although performances aren't held every day, and English information is limited, But seeing the original wooden buildings amidst the pine forest and the tranquil atmosphere is worth a stop. If you come early in the morning, you'll get a quiet atmosphere and beautiful photos. 🍂