Kawaguchiko Chigo-mai Dance

Overview and Charm

Kawaguchiko Chigo-mai is a traditional folk performing art passed down through the Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine in Fujikawaguchiko Town, Minamitsuru District, Yamanashi Prefecture. This dance is believed to have its origins in the Miko-mai (shrine maiden dance) style of Taia Kagura and is designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. In 1960, it was also designated as a Yamanashi Prefectural Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Locally known as "Odaidai," it is a deeply cherished culture closely linked to the spiritual traditions at the foot of Mount Fuji.

History and Cultural Background

The history of this dance is ancient. Records suggest that during the Edo period, when Mt. Fuji climbing was highly popular, the dance was offered at the request of pilgrims (Dojya) before their ascent. The dancers (Chigo) are young girls aged 7 to 12. While historically the role was limited to daughters of priests or Oshis (pilgrimage guides), today it is widely selected from the children of local shrine parishioners. To this day, strict traditional taboos and rituals are observed for the performance; for example, during the April Grand Festival, participants refrain from eating raw foods and perform purification rituals using fire-striking stones every morning.

Main Highlights

The dance consists of a structure called "5-ban date," where each dance utilizes different ritual tools (nimono). The girls wear white kosode under scarlet chihaya and hakama, layered with embroidered jinbaori (formal coats), with traditional makeup and Yoraku (ornamental headgear). Each dance features a bell held in the right hand and varying ritual objects in the left:

• Gohei no Mai: A dance using a ritual wand, performed by 2 or 3 dancers.
• Ogi no Mai: A dance using fans, performed by 2 or 3 dancers.
• Tsurugi no Mai: A solo dance featuring a sword.
• Happo no Mai: A complex dance using a ritual wand, performed by 2 dancers.
• Miyameguri no Mai: A grand dance involving 8 participants using fans, circling the area between the worship hall and the main shrine three times.

Recommended Seasons and Timing

Since the Kawaguchiko Chigo-mai is only performed during specific festival periods, checking the exact dates is essential before visiting:

• April 25: Performed during the Annual Grand Festival (Reitaisai). The three types of dance performed are Gohei, Ogi, and Tsurugi.
• July 28: Performed during the Taia Mikagura Festival. During this time, all five types of the dance are performed.

Experience and Activities

This is not a hands-on activity but a cultural event where you observe a sacred ritual. You can witness the girls in their exquisite traditional costumes performing amidst the rhythmic sounds of the Daiko (large drum) and Fue (flute) played by the musicians at the shrine grounds.

Surrounding Area

Kawaguchi Sengen Shrine is located on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi in Fujikawaguchiko Town. The area offers stunning views of Mt. Fuji and provides a deep connection to the local history and culture of the Fuji Five Lakes region.

Practical Information

• Payment: Please prepare cash for food, drinks, or nearby facilities.
• Language: English support is limited during the festival.
• Reservations: No advance reservation is required for viewing, but please confirm the festival dates in advance.
• Attire: As this is a shrine visit, modest clothing is recommended.
• Photography: Please follow local instructions regarding photography, as these are sacred rituals.