UNESCO Spotlight Could Elevate Tokyo's Kagurazaka as a Traditional Cultural Experience Destination
In March 2024, a major initiative was launched in Japan to register Kagura—one of the country’s most revered sacred performance arts—as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A coalition of 24 prefectures came together under the newly formed “Governors’ Association for the Inheritance and Promotion of Kagura,” with the goal of achieving registration by 2028.
Kagura is a ritual performance involving music and dance, traditionally offered to welcome the presence of deities and receive divine messages. It is said to have originated from the ancient myth in which the goddess Ame-no-Uzume dances to lure Amaterasu, the sun goddess, out of a cave—thus restoring light to the world. Today, over 4,000 unique forms of Kagura are still practiced throughout Japan.
This national movement holds special significance for us at EDO KAGURA Corporation, as the word Kagura in our name is directly inspired by Kagurazaka. In this historic district, we are based.
We sincerely hope that UNESCO recognition of Kagura will illuminate the cultural heritage of Tokyo’s Kagurazaka and help establish it as a premier destination for authentic traditional cultural experiences.
What’s in a Name: The Origins of “Kagurazaka”
The name Kagurazaka literally means “Kagura Slope (Hill),” and there are several theories surrounding its origin.
One popular story is that, in ancient times, the sound of sacred Kagura music from nearby shrines could be heard echoing through this slope—perhaps from Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine or Tsukudo Hachiman Shrine. Another legend recounts how, during the early Edo period, when the Tsukudo Myojin Shrine was relocated to the area, the mikoshi (portable shrine) could not ascend the hill due to its heavy weight—until Kagura music was played, allowing it to be carried up with ease. From that moment, the hill became known as Kagurazaka.
Whichever story is true, it’s clear that the area has long resonated with sacred sound and spiritual presence. The very name Kagurazaka embodies Japan’s enduring connection to ritual, beauty, and reverence.
From Kagurazaka to the World — A Living Center of Cultural Heritage
At EDO KAGURA Corporation, we offer immersive cultural experiences based in Kagurazaka: Noh theater, Zen meditation, Ukiyo-e printmaking, geisha banquets, and more. Our founder, Shinya Yamada, has lived in the neighborhood for over 25 years and built strong relationships with the local community, allowing us to create authentic and intimate experiences.
Our company name reflects our deep ties to the area—EDO comes from nearby Edogawabashi, while KAGURA honors Kagurazaka. Together, they represent the two bridges—historical and spiritual—between Japan’s past and present.
A New Spotlight on Kagurazaka’s Cultural Significance
This national movement to register Kagura as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage may also shine a long-overdue spotlight on Kagurazaka itself—a district rich in historical and cultural value, yet still largely unknown to international visitors.
If this initiative brings new recognition to Kagurazaka's hidden treasures, it would be a great joy for all of us who are committed to preserving and sharing Japan’s living traditions with the world.
How to Access Kagurazaka
The Kagurazaka area is conveniently located within 30 minutes from any major station in Tokyo. This is because Kagurazaka is situated in the heart of Tokyo, at the center of the Yamanote Line. Please come and visit this convenient and charming Kagurazaka.
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