Panduan
The Yuza Koshogatsu is a traditional folk ritual passed down through the Ou-dori district (Mega, Takinoura, and Torisaki) in Yuza Town, Yamagata Prefecture. It was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property on December 21, 1999, and in 2018, it was registered as part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage 'Visiting Gods and Masked Deities.' During the ritual, figures known as 'Amahage'—wearing demon masks and multiple layers of straw capes called 'Kendan'—visit local households while emitting high-pitched, eerie vocalizations.
This ritual is a ceremony of visiting deities central to the local community. While it shares common roots with the famous 'Namahage' of Akita Prefecture, the Yuza Amahage is distinct in its use of specific demon or old man (Okina) masks and the unique way the straw capes are worn. Historically, the ritual has been performed to encourage hard work, pray for the longevity of the elderly, and ensure the peace and prosperity of the region, playing a vital role in strengthening community bonds.
The most breathtaking moment is seeing the Amahage, with their striking and otherworldly masks, visiting local homes. The sight of them moving through the village with unique gestures and high-pitched calls is a profound embodiment of Japanese traditional spirituality. The dates vary by settlement: the ritual takes place in Takinoura on the 1st, Mega on the 3rd, and Torisaki on the 6th of January. Each village offers a unique atmosphere for this traditional ceremony.
This event takes place annually in January. The specific dates are fixed by settlement: January 1st for Takinoura, January 3rd for Mega, and January 6th for Torisaki. As this is a winter event, please be prepared for extremely low temperatures. The exact timing depends on the progression of the ritual within each village, so it is best to observe based on the local flow of the ceremony.
Visitors can observe the movement of the Amahage as they visit the houses from the outside. Witnessing these traditional masked deities appear is a high-value cultural experience. It is an opportunity to observe a sacred ritual performed by local residents up close.
The area around the Ou-dori district in Yuza Town features a beautiful coastline at the foot of Mount Mt. Chokai. After the intense ritual in the cold winter air, you can enjoy the serene and quiet landscapes of the region.