HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Kawagoe Sato-Kagura Experience
Explore ancient rituals and immerse yourself in Japanese culture through a traditional Japanese performing art
Saitama Prefecture
Kawagoe City, a historic town just an hour from Tokyo, offers a captivating glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage. One of its unique traditions is Sato-Kagura, a ritual dance rooted in ancient Shinto beliefs that is different from kagura in other regions of Japan.
Sato-Kagura has been passed down for generations in Kawagoe, with origins tracing back to 1603-1867 when the Tokugawa shoguns and the lords of Kawagoe maintained close ties. Because Kawagoe Castle was near Edo Castle, only the most capable leaders became its lords. Among them were lords with cultural sensibilities who refined Sato-Kagura into a graceful art and cherished it, ensuring its preservation to this day.
Experiencing Sato-Kagura is like stepping into the world of the Kawagoe lords. As a silent performance, it transcends language barriers, with the ambassador of goodwill tourism in Kawagoe providing a simple picture-story introduction. Held in a hidden practice hall, the setting itself heightens the sense of discovery.
Sato-Kagura is an immersive experience where visitors wear traditional masks, dance with performers, and share laughter over sake from a nearby brewery. The dancers’ passion, elaborate costumes, and solemn atmosphere make it truly unforgettable.
How to get there
From Tokyo Station, take the Marunouchi Line to Ikebukuro Station (about 15 minutes), then transfer to the Tobu Tojo Line and get off at Kawagoe Station (about 30 minutes). From Kawagoe Station, take a bus and get off at the Renkeiji stop (about 10 minutes). A 1-minute walk will take you to the meeting point, Hatago Coedoya.
8-1 Renjaku-cho, Kawagoe-shi, Saitama-ken（Meeting Point）
