Kamitarawara Yutate Kagura (Kamitarawara Yutate Kagura) White-robed performers douse themselves with hot water The Kamitarawara Yutate Kagura took place on December 8, 2024, at Mitarai Shrine in Kamitarawara, Mie-machi, Bungoono City, Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This ritual, offered once every three years to pray for good health and a bountiful harvest, drew many spectators on the day. The ceremony begins with the aragami (rough deity) performing a water purification of two large cauldrons whose fires have been kept burning, then wildly dancing over the charcoal fire while scattering sparks. Next, two performers in eboshi caps and hakama stir the water, scoop it by hand, and collect the yudama (water spirit) to offer before the deity. Then two white-robed performers drench themselves with water using kumazasa bamboo leaves, dance barefoot over the charcoal fire, enter the cauldron area to recite norito prayers, and conclude with a final dedication dance. The powerful, otherworldly spectacle drew loud applause from the audience. Location On the grounds of Mitarai Shrine (Kamitarawara, Mie-machi, Bungoono City) Access to central Bungoono City About a 3-hour drive from JR Hakata Station, Fukuoka Prefecture About a 2-hour drive from JR Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Beppu Station, Oita Prefecture About a 1 hour 20 minute drive from JR Yufuin Station, Oita Prefecture Follow Bungoono City on Instagram for recommended sightseeing, gourmet spots, and accommodations⬇ Bungoono City Tourism Association @satonotabiii We would be happy if you follow us. You can find the Bungoono City Tourism Association website linked from our profile.