Traditional Culture Experience
The Traditional Industries and Culture Behind Iwami Kagura
A number of traditional industries and cultural traditions have taken root in Hamada, the town of Iwami Kagura.
Each of them is an essential part of Iwami Kagura.
The reason why the making of Sekishu Washi, the very origin of it all, began.
The inevitability of the refinement of techniques becomes clear as we unravel the history of Iwami Kagura.
The reason why the making Sekishu Washi that is the all origin began.
The inevitability of the refinement of techniques that can be seen in unraveling the history of Iwami Kagura.
Please experience the story that has been passed down from generation to generation in this region through hands-on activities at the workshop and interaction with craftspeople.
- Sekishu Washi
Experience
The origin of the “beauty” created by techniques passed down for 1,300 years
Sekishu Washi has been used for 1,300 years since it was introduced to the Iwami region in the Nara period (710–794), and the papermaking technique has been passed down through the generations. Its fine yet strong material is a perfect match for costumes, serpent bodies, and masks, and is indispensable to the development of Iwami Kagura in Hamada. The origin of the “beauty” of Iwami Kagura has been designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. Visitors are invited to experience the depth of this tradition through a hands-on papermaking experience and a tour of the workshop.
- Papermaking workshop
Experience Overview
Sekishu Washi is made from the bark fibers of plants such as Kozo (paper mulberry), Mitsumata (paper bush), and Gampi, with the sap from the root of the Tororoaoi plant added as a binding agent. In this hands-on experience, visitors will have the chance to try their hand at papermaking, an essential step in the Sekishu Washi process. You can choose your preferred decorations and create your own original Sekishu Washi.
- Duration
- Approximately 40 minutes
Experience Details
- 01
- Introduction to the History of Sekishu Washi
- 02
- The Relationship Between Sekishu Washi and Iwami Kagura
- 03
- Characteristics of Sekishu Washi
- 04
- Workshop Tour
- 05
- Atelier Tour
- 06
- Papermaking Experience
- 07
- Q&A Session
- Iwami Kagura Masks
Experience
Discover the depth of traditional techniques handed down in the Nagahama area since the Middle Ages.
Iwami Kagura masks with sharp expressions and piercing glares are derived from “Nagahama dolls,” which have been made in the Nagahama area of Hamada City since the medieval period.
Like the costumes and serpent bodies, the masks are made of Sekishu Washi.
The strong and durable material allows the masks to be as intricately detailed as carved wooden masks, while also being light enough to withstand the intense and rhythmic dances of Iwami Kagura.
In addition to a tour of the workshop, visitors can participate in an optional mask-painting experience.
- Workshop Tour
Experience Overview
In the process of making Iwami Kagura masks, many layers of Sekishu Washi are pasted onto a clay mold. After drying, the paper is removed from the mold in a process called “dakkatsu,” which completes the basic shape of the mask.After dakkatsu, the mask is painted and finely detailed, giving it its rich and expressive appearance. This technique, which is rare even within Japan, produces the distinctive and expressive masks of Iwami Kagura.During the tour, the production process and the various types of masks will be explained.
- Duration
- Approximately 40 minutes
Experience Details
- 01
- Introduction to the History of Iwami Kagura Masks
- 02
- Introduction to the Types of Iwami Kagura Masks
- 03
- Characteristics of Iwami Kagura Masks
- 04
- Commemorative Photo Session
- 05
- Dakkatsu Experience
- 06
- Q&A Session
- Painting workshop(optional)
Experience Overview
Using the same materials as the Kagura masks actually used in Iwami Kagura, you can create your own original Kagura mask by painting a base mask that has not yet been colored.During the experience, craftsmen will offer advice and guidance, so even beginners can take part with confidence.The Kagura mask you create can be taken home as a souvenir.
- Duration
- Approximately 90 minutes
Experience Details
- 01
- Introduction to the Painting Process
- 02
- Shading: Rub black ink powder into the mask to create shading and a three-dimensional effect.
- 03
- Painting the Eyes: Draw lines around the eyes and add the pupils to bring the eyes to life.
- 04
- Painting the Hair: Paint the hair, eyebrows, and beard to give the mask its expression.
- 05
- Painting the Mouth: Paint the mouth in vermilion to complete the mask.
- 06
- Q&A Session
- Iwami Kagura Costume
Experience
Enjoy dressing and sewing while experiencing the value of these garments with all your senses.
Iwami Kagura costumes, richly embroidered with gold and silver threads depicting legendary creatures, animals, and plants, were developed by costume makers in Hamada through years of research.
Their three-dimensional designs, which create striking depth and shadow, bring brilliant color and movement to the stage. At the workshop, visitors can not only try sewing techniques but also wear these magnificent costumes—each worth several million yen—and experience the artistry created by craftsmen who spend months completing each piece by hand.
- Workshop Tour
Experience Overview
The magnificent costumes, a defining feature of Iwami Kagura, are carefully hand-sewn and crafted one by one by skilled artisans. At the costume workshop, visitors can observe techniques that have been passed down through generations while learning about the production process and the history of Kagura costumes.
- Duration
- Approximately 40 minutes
Experience Details
- 01
- Introduction to the History of Iwami Kagura Costumes
- 02
- Characteristics of Iwami Kagura Costumes
- 03
- Production Process of Iwami Kagura Costumes
- 04
- Q& A Session
- Iwami Kagura Jado : the serpent body
Experience
How is the symbol of Iwami Kagura created?
The sight of the great serpent weaving and surging across the stage has become an iconic symbol of Iwami Kagura. From the time when the dance was performed by Shinto priests until the early Meiji period (1868–1912), performers wore costumes decorated with scale patterns. However, with the development of the serpent body (ja-dō) in Hamada, the performance evolved into a far more dynamic and realistic dance. How do the craftsmen of Hamada—the birthplace of the serpent body made from Sekishu Washi and bamboo—create such powerful movement and beauty? Through this tour, you will explore the little-known world behind the performance while experiencing the techniques and passion of the artisans who create it.
- Workshop Tour
Experience Overview
The serpent body used in the famous “Orochi” performance—one of the most iconic elements of Iwami Kagura—is made from bamboo and Sekishu Washi (Japanese paper). At the workshop, visitors can observe the materials and traditional techniques that have remained unchanged since the serpent body was first developed. You can also hear directly from the craftsmen involved in its production about the deep history and background behind this remarkable creation.
- Duration
- Approximately 40 minutes
Experience Details
- 01
- Introduction to the History of Iwami Kagura Serpent Bodies
- 02
- Production Process of Iwami Kagura Serpent Bodies
- 03
- Viewing the Completed Orochi Serpent
- 04
- Q&A Session
Premium Performances
A special night to experience everything Hamada’s Iwami Kagura has to offer
After visiting the workshops and discovering the roots of Iwami Kagura and the craftsmanship behind it, you will be invited to an exclusive Iwami Kagura performance available only on this tour. The venue, which normally seats 100 people, will be specially arranged for just 20 guests, offering spacious and comfortable seating. While enjoying an “Orochi Bento” prepared with local ingredients, you can experience the powerful and dynamic dance performance up close. After the show, a backstage tour will give you the opportunity to interact with members of the Kagura troupe. Spend a truly special evening fully experiencing the world of Hamada’s Iwami Kagura.
- Representative Performances
Jinrin
A battle between two gods and two demons, where the gods’ bows and arrows clash with the demons’ claws.
After hearing that the evil demon “Jinrin” is tormenting the people of Japan, the 14th emperor, Tarashinakatsuhiko, and his retainer Takamaro confront the demon and defeat it.
Featuring a dramatic battle between two gods and two demons, this is one of the most fast-paced performances in Iwami Kagura. The climactic battle scene is so thrilling that you cannot take your eyes off the stage.
Orochi
An astonishing dance that breathes fire and splits the earth.
“Orochi,” one of the most popular and iconic performances of Iwami Kagura, tells the story of a battle between Susano-no-Mikoto and a giant serpent with eight heads and eight tails.
The serpent is said to symbolize a raging river in flood, and the story is often interpreted as a struggle between humans and the forces of nature.
The lifelike movements of the massive serpent and the dramatic confrontation between Susano-no-Mikoto and Orochi create an intense and breathtaking spectacle.
- Dining
Orochi Bento (Local Special Bento)
Passing on Hamada’s food and culture to the future.
The “Hamada Iwami Kagura Orochi Bento” is a special bento created under the supervision of a food coordinator, featuring a generous selection of Shimane’s local specialties such as turban shell, nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), and Shimane Wagyu beef.
In particular, the anago (conger eel) stick sushi, inspired by the legendary Orochi serpent, makes a striking impression the moment you open the lid—so eye-catching that you’ll want to take a photo right away.
- Accommodation
Mimata Onsen
A beauty hot spring loved for over 150 years.
Mimata Onsen has been loved by visitors for around 150 years and has long been known as a “beauty hot spring.” The secret lies in its alkaline spring water, which is gentle on the skin, and its rich mineral content. In recent years, this hidden hot spring in the San’in region has gained attention online and on social media as “Japan’s best hot spring for beautiful skin” and “a supreme hot spring for skin renewal.” Enjoy a luxurious moment of relaxation, beauty, and wellness in this historic and charming hot spring town.
Asahi Onsen
Enjoy a relaxing moment in the gentle hot spring waters nestled in the mountains.
Asahi Onsen, surrounded by the majestic nature of the Chugoku Mountains, is a charming hot spring town known for its beautiful seasonal scenery and gentle, soothing waters.
Visitors can enjoy the hot springs while taking in the changing seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, fireflies in summer, and a blanket of snow in winter.
Relax and refresh both body and mind as you enjoy a truly special and peaceful moment.
- Tour Prices
Hamada Iwami Kagura Premium Cultural Experience Tour
Please book through one of the travel agencies listed below.
