[Authentic] A simple experience of “Dekansho Bushi,” a Japanese intangible cultural heritage and a Japanese festival

Dekansho Festival is a traditional Japanese bon dance festival that is performed to the folk song “Dekansho Bushi,” which has been passed down from the Edo period. The Dekansho Festival is said to be the largest folk song festival in western Japan. A giant wooden yagura (watchtower), one of the largest in Japan, is erected at the San-no-maru Square of the ruins of Sasayama Castle, where a dance with the general public is held. Every year on August 15 to 16, the festival takes place over two days. It is believed that one can understand the historical and cultural climate of Tamba-Sasayama City by listening to the Dekansho Bushi, which is said to have more than 400 variations. At the Tamba-Sasayama Dekansho Kan in the Tamba-Sasayama Aoyama Historical Village, you can enjoy the authentic experience of “Dekansho Bushi,” with live performances and songs by the preservation society throughout the year. In addition, you can make your own original hand towel by adding your favorite pattern to it featuring the lyrics of the Dekansho Bushi and participate in the full-scale dance on the day of the Dekansho Festival with your own towel.