Yagumo Kagura, also known as Nakazuma Kagura or Daitenba Kagura, is a form of Kagura dedicated to Yagumo Shrine, and is referred to as a type of Yamabushi Kagura or Hoin Kagura.
Yagumo Shrine was originally known as Daitenba Gongen, invited to Kamaishi and re-enshrined around 490 years ago in 1531 (Kyoroku 4).
Yamabushi and Hoin Kagura traditions in neighboring regions, with Mt. Hayachine at their core, have been passed down to this day, but very little is actually known about the entirety of the dance. Additionally, the Yagumo Kagura tradition is said to differ in its rhythm from the Otsugunai and Take Kagura of Ohasama, and the Kuromori Kagura of Miyako.
Among the Kagura manuscripts currently handed down among Yagumo Kagura, the oldest one with a recorded date is from 1745 (Enkyo 2). This manuscript, known as Kagura Uta, was passed down by Eiyo Hoin, the 10th generation head of Yagumo Shrine’s affiliated temple, Kannonji Temple.
The manuscripts refer to dances such as Torimai, Mikagura, Okina, Sanbaso, Takamura, Nenju, Hataori, Warabiori, Yarihiki, Tennyo, Kiso, Shiokumi, Shinobu, Iwatobiraki, Yamagamihi, Sakakimai, Sanja, Nishinomiya, Shimekiri, Fusho, Sanpokojin, Miyashizume, Seiken, among others. However, only a small portion of them have been inherited to the present day.
Currently, the Yagumo Kagura Preservation Society is working to preserve and pass down the traditions, and offer performances during the Reitaisai (regularly held festivals) of Yagumo Shrine and Osaki Shrine. (From The 25th Local Performing Arts Festival 2022 brochure)