The performing arts of the Snow Festival

Festival highlights

Highlights include the many dances dedicated at the kagura hall and the large torch erected in the shrine grounds.

Following the boat crossing and the lighting of the torches, performances such as Saihō, Motoki, the binzasara dance, horse racing, and Tengu appear.

Ancient-style movements by masked performers unfold one after another in the shrine grounds at night.

Another major feature of the festival is the tradition of preserving its range of performing arts and the organizations of its performers.

Ancient dances and flames of Niino, turning snow into a sign of a good harvest

What to expect

The festival begins with the “O-kudari” procession, which carries masks from Izu Shrine to Suwa Shrine, followed by mask makeup and trial dances.

The following day, the “O-nobori” procession travels from Suwa Shrine to Izu Shrine, and dances are dedicated at the kagura hall and the main shrine building.

After that, a large torch is lit and the boat crossing takes place, followed by performances such as Saihō, Motoki, and rice-field entertainments that continue through the night.

The festival invites visitors to watch as its rituals and performances unfold in stages.

Location and access

Venue and address

Izu Shrine.

A procession also travels from Suwa Shrine to Izu Shrine.

Source: 南信州で楽しむ民俗芸能｜長野の観光でふれる地域文化 | Go! NAGANO 長野県公式観光サイト

Event venue 長野県阿南町 伊豆神社

This map uses the venue name. Check the official guide for the event area and entrances.

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Dates and season

It is held each year from January 13 through the 15th.

January 13 is listed as the schedule: the “O-kudari,” when mask figures are carried to Suwa Shrine, followed by the main “O-nobori” procession and dedicated performances from the evening of the 14th, continuing until the morning of the 15th.

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Tips for your visit

As the performances continue through the night, visitors need to dress for the severe cold.

Since rituals and dances take place in the shrine grounds, it is important to watch quietly from a position that does not obstruct the performances or worshippers.

Flash photography is prohibited.

If taking photographs, please follow the designated guidelines.

Nearby attractions

Temples and shrinesAnan

安倍神像神社

長野県下伊那郡阿南町にある神社

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写真：へぼ飯 / CC0

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Attractions in the same municipality. Check each attraction’s official website for travel distances from the venue and current opening information.

Origins and History of The performing arts of the Snow Festival

This performing art has long been known as the “New Year’s Ritual” and the “Dengaku Festival.”

It is said to date back to around 1265.

In Taisho 15, folklorist Shinobu Orikuchi visited and introduced it nationwide, and the name “Snow Festival” is said to have spread as a result.

It is also regarded as an important festival for the study of performing arts history.

Official information

For information about the event location, the official “Niino Snow Festival” website of Anan is listed as a reference.

For the latest information on the event dates, visitors are advised to check the Google Calendar of event dates or contact the municipal office in the host area.

The performing arts of the Snow Festival at a Glance

The performing arts of the Snow Festival are folk performing arts of the dengaku tradition, handed down in Niino, Anan.

A procession carrying masks, the lighting of a large torch, the boat crossing, and dances such as Saihō and Motoki are performed in succession at the shrines.

It continues the tradition of faith that sees snow as an omen of a good harvest, as well as the lineage of long-standing New Year’s rituals and dengaku festivals.

When watching at night, be prepared for the cold and note that flash photography is prohibited.