From Japan straight out to the world: the web site for news and information

Kagura Club of Unnan Municipal Ushio Junior High School
"I joined the Kagura club because I wanted to pass on the Kagura tradition."
**********************************************************
Rev. Asanori Ishihara, Chief priest of Suga Jinja Shrine
"There are several views on this story, ‘Extermination of the serpent.’ Scholars have been attempting to demystify what the ‘Serpent’ is. But I don’t feel it is the right thing to do. The myth is a precious ancient story. We have to treasure it." 
**********************************************************
Rev. Tokiyasu Okitsu, Izumo-taisha Grand Shrine
"That roof is made out of layers of ‘Hiwada,’ cypress bark. Currently, the shrine is in the middle of renovation. Mainly, the thatch replacement work is under way."
**********************************************************
Mr. Hiroyuki Nishi, Veteran Thatcher
"The main workers are in their thirties and forties, and we have been training successors including teenagers and men in their twenties. So, we are not having trouble finding people to carry on the tradition. But it is not easy to pass on the skill."
**********************************************************
Mr. Zembee Mizoguchi, Governor of Shimane Prefecture
"To make Shimane prefecture wealthier, we are promoting the “Land of the Gods” project."
**********************************************************