What is the Kagura-den Hall?
It is a building constructed within a Shinto shrine specifically for the performance of kagura (sacred dance and music). It is a sacred place where kagura dances expressing gratitude and prayers to the enshrined deities, as well as religious services and weddings, are held. It is typically built as a separate structure adjacent to the Haiden (Main Worship Hall).
The giant shimenawa rope at the Kagura-den Hall is truly spectacular.
The large shimenawa (sacred rope) at Izumo Taisha’s Kagura-den is one of the largest in Japan, measuring approximately 13.6 meters in length, weighing 5.2 tons, and reaching a maximum circumference of 8 meters. Every 6 to 8 years, it is replaced with a new one crafted in Iinan Town, Shimane Prefecture, and it solemnly adorns the Kagura-den as a sacred barrier.
