Kenji Miyazawa birthplace

Hayachine Kagura

Hayachine Kagura is the collective name for two Kagura zas: Take Kagura, the dedicated Kagura of Hayachine Shrine, and Otsugunai Kagura, the Dedicated Kagura of Taisai Shrine. Although there are no existing records, there is a gongen-gashira inscribed in 1595 at Hayachine Shrine in Takeno, and there is a Kagura denjosho dated 1488 for Taisaku Kagura. It is thought that its origins date back to the Nanbokucho period, and it is said to be an ancient form of kagura with a tradition of over 500 years. It is said that Gake Kagura and Daisaku Kagura are two sides of the same coin, and the programs are almost the same, with about 40 pieces each handed down. Gaku Kagura is based on five beats and specializes in the brave and lively ``aramai'', while Daisai Kagura is based on seven beats and specializes in slow and delicate ``onnamai''. It was designated as a national important intangible folk cultural property in 1976, and was registered as a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage in 2009.

Kasuga style Ochiai deer dance

The origin of the deer dance goes back 1,000 years, and the Kasuga style of Ochiai deer dance was performed by people carrying about 2 meters of Sasara bamboo on their backs, wearing deer masks, and beating a drum hung on their bellies. It is said that this festival began as a memorial service for a deer. It has ancient beliefs hidden in it, and has a high dignity even in its simplicity, and other dances that have been passed down in Towa Town include the Kanazu-style Tannai Shishi Odori and the Noganeyama Kagagara Shishi Odori. An intangible folk cultural property designated by Iwate Prefecture.

Mishōji Temple

A temple where Kenji Miyazawa's grave is located. The main hall is located near Gindoro Park and is located at the top of a narrow stone staircase. Kenji's funeral was held at Anjo-ji Temple (Otani sect of Jodo Shinshu sect), but it is said that he was later reinterred at Mishō-ji Temple. The tombstone is located at the back of the main hall, and it is said that fresh flowers will never run out. In spring, the weeping cherry blossoms on the grounds are spectacular.