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

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