Nakabara Kagura Troupe

Kagura Day: Sunday, January 10, 2027

Tsuchigumo
(The Earth Spider)

This Kagura adaptation of the Noh play Tsuchigumo depicts the fierce battle between Minamoto no Raiko and the spirit of Tsuchigumo, the Earth Spider.

Synopsis

From ancient times, the spirit of the Earth Spider inhabited Mount Katsuragi in Yamato Province. One night, while Minamoto no Raiko lies bedridden with illness, a mysterious maid named Kocho creeps up to him with a poisonous potion. In truth, she is the incarnation of the giant spider demon – Tsuchigumo – who harbors a deep grudge against Raiko! Once her schemes are exposed at the last second, the Earth Spider reveals its true form, ruthlessly attacking while unleashing endless webs of white spider silk in a display of intense tenacity. Evading the terrifying onslaught and the traps of silk, Raiko’s loyal retainers, the Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno), engage in a desperate sword fight against Tsuchigumo. After a tense back-and-forth struggle, they triumph over the evil monster in a breathtaking, climax-filled masterpiece.

Highlights of the Program

The quick change (Hayagawari) of Kocho’s mask from the face of the maid to that of the spider demon, as well as the intense battle scene between the gods (Kami) and the Earth Spider.

Note: The January 10th program will be “Tsuchigumo”.

All of our members are working together as one to deliver a Kagura performance that brings joy to everyone.

Troupe Overview

Troupe Name

Nakabara Kagura Troupe

Location

Nakabara, Kitahiroshima Town

Repertoire

5 traditional-style (Kyumai) plays and 5 modern-style (Shinmai) plays

Number of Members

18 members

Troupe Leader

Eiichi Saito

Troupe Features

The troupe is supported by a local Kagura Preservation Society made up of residents from the Nakabara district.

TOUR ROUTE

Schedule

Meet at Hiroshima Station.

A tour escort will be waiting for you at the meeting point.