The shishimai is one of Japan’s most vibrant and diverse folk dancing traditions. “Shishi” are the mythical lion-like creatures common in Asian folklore, and “mai” means dance. These lion dances first came to Japan in the 7th century, as ritual performances to exorcise evil, and developed into prayers for good health or rich harvests. Different versions evolved in different regions, and today there are thousands of organizations dedicated to preserving local shishimai dances. Starting with perhaps Japan’s most popular shishimai known as Daikagura, we travel the country to showcase the vast range of shishimai traditions. A ritual dance where a sprinkling of hot water keeps evil spirits at bay, one where the shishi is covered in thick horsehair, one passed down by the rigorous ascetic practicetioners of shugendo training in the mountains, one where the shishi is so long it’s practically a centipede, and much more.

Presented by: The Japan Foundation (JF) (https://www.jpf.go.jp/e/)

＜Program Credits＞
Performers: Seharada Daidai-kagura Preservation Association, Hakone Miyagino Shishimai Preservation Society, Uhara Shishimai Preservation Society, Takayashiki Kagura Preservation Society, Ejiri Youth Group (Seinendan)
Production Assistance: Nippon seinenkan
Additional Materials: National Diet Library, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Public Library, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Minneapolis Institute of Art, Getty Images, Shutterstock, Hakone Town Hall, Ichinohe Town Board of Education, Takaoka City Tourism Association
Supervision: KUBOTA Hiromichi
Video Image Production: NHK ENTERPRISES, INC.
Video Image Producer: HAMANO Takahiro, KAWAI Akiko
Video Image Director and Editor: YOKOTA Hiroshi

＜Subtitling Credits＞
English Translation: Paul BARNDT
French Translation: Simul International, Inc.
Indonesian Translation: Simul International, Inc.
Thai Translation: Simul International, Inc.

© The Japan Foundation (JF) All Rights Reserved

End date of distribution: 23/1/2035