The Namahage go from house to house in the Oga region of Akita to remind children, young adults and newly married women not to be lazy.

Anyone who sits too long in front of the fire will be haunted by the namahage

Life in northern Akita was not easy before the arrival of electricity. Long, cold winters with large amounts of snow demanded a lot from the people; everyone had to contribute their share to life in the community. Those who spend too much time in front of the fire are therefore haunted by the Namahage.

The Namahage wear traditional straw cloaks, masks with grotesque, demon-like faces and large cleavers. Despite their wild appearance, they are divine beings and closely associated with Shintoism.

Once a year in February, the Namahage descend from the mountain, accompanied by music and a large fire, to encourage the people of the region to be industrious and energetic. Away from this festival, you can learn more about the history of the Namahage in the local museum and experience the wild, quick-tempered behavior of the envoys at taiko performances or at a demonstration in a traditional farmhouse.

UNESCO cultural heritage

This unique custom surrounding the Namahage was recognized as a UNESCO cultural heritage site in 1978.