Fushimi Inari Taisha Kaguraden (Stage) — Local services in Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most famous Shinto shrines, is renowned for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Among its many structures, the Kaguraden (神楽殿), or sacred stage, plays an important role in religious ceremonies and cultural performances.

The Kaguraden is located within the main shrine complex, often near the Haiden (worship hall). This stage is traditionally used for Kagura, a form of sacred dance and music dedicated to the kami (Shinto deities). At Fushimi Inari Taisha, such performances honor Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and foxes. These dances are believed to bring divine blessings, purify the surroundings, and strengthen the connection between humans and the gods.

During major festivals like the Setsubun-sai (celebrating the start of spring) and the Inari Matsuri, the Kaguraden becomes a focal point of activity. Performers, often dressed in elaborate traditional attire, present elegant, ritualistic dances accompanied by ancient court music (gagaku). In some ceremonies, shrine maidens (miko) perform the graceful Miko-mai, a dance offered to the gods.

Beyond religious performances, the Kaguraden also hosts public prayers and special blessings. Worshippers may gather here to receive divine favors for business success, safe travels, or personal well-being. The presence of this stage highlights the shrine’s role not just as a place of prayer, but also as a cultural and artistic hub.

For visitors, witnessing a performance at the Kaguraden offers a rare glimpse into the living traditions of Shinto, enhancing their spiritual and cultural experience at Fushimi...

Impressionnant, incroyable, émerveillant. L’endroit est ampli d’une atmosphère unique. J’y ai vécu un moment unique et eu des émotions jamais ressenties auparavant. Malgré une foule impressionnante de personnes, c’était un moment dans le...

明治15年（1882年）に能楽殿として建てられ、神楽堂・楽殿などとも呼ばれている社殿で、毎日「神楽」が奉納されている。 祈祷に訪れた人に高雅な神楽鈴・琴・笛の音に合わせ、２人の神楽巫女さんが舞を披露する。 以前は柱に撮影禁止の看板が掲げてあり、口コミを見ると「カメラを向けただけで警備員が飛んで来た」との事だったが、現在はその看板も外されおり、大勢の観光客がカメラやスマホで撮影していた。 他の場所ではマナーやモラルが欠けている隣国の方々もここでは静かに...