Shows

Okayama: Divine Beings Up Close

Okayama Prefecture is a magical place where ancient myths live on. Shinto shrines venerate unique gods and Buddhist temples feature rare rituals. Kanoa, from Hawaii, explores the eastern side of the prefecture to discover how gods, demons and Buddha are rooted in daily life.

Neri Kuyo

A religious play that depicts Amitabha and the heavenly gods coming from the Land of Pure Bliss to receive believers. It is held every year on May 5 at the Henmyoin Temple in Setouchi City.

Ashio Shrine

A shrine in Akaiwa City that worships a god that heals foot injuries and illnesses. Inside the main hall you can see offerings of sickles that symbolize "cutting away" disease.

Yasegoze

This festival takes place at Yakushido Temple on April 8 of the lunar calendar to celebrate the birth of Buddha. Worshippers carry a small Buddha statue and circle the temple three times to have their wishes fulfilled. The temple is located between Mimasaka and Katsuo.

Access

From Tokyo to Okayama, it takes about three hours and ten minutes by the Tokaido Sanyo Shinkansen. From Okayama Station, you will need to change to local trains or buses to reach each destination.

Transcript