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| 1.Disguising themselves to play
the role of gods |
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| 2.Donning a distinctive red-flowered
crown |
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| 3.Descending the mountain with
tree branches |
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| 4.Men descend the mountain to
purify the village |
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| 5.Using the branches to dispel
evil spirits |
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| 6.Heading to the community |
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| 7.Men receive sacred liqour
in this Sakankei
rite. |
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In Ada, there is an important ritual that symbolizes the belief
of gods descending to the living world, and bears much ignificance
as the Unjami (god of sea) ritual.
The term Shinugu signifies "a
ritual for men and brothers", where men personify the gods.
They pray to the mountain god for a rich harvest and prosperity
for their families and community. Then, facing the direction
of the ocean, they repeat the same to the god of sea. Donning
leaves all over their bodies, they finally descend the mountain
as gods to purify the community.
Designation: National Important Intangible
Folk Cultural Property
Registration Owner or Holder: Ada Association for the Preservation
of Cultural Assets
Photo Courtesy of: Masao Higa |
