At Saikoji Temple in Yagi-cho, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture, the intangible folk cultural asset "Rokusai Nembutsu" was dedicated. Members of the preservation society, made up of temple parishioners, beat the drums while twirling the red tassels tied to the drumsticks, praying for the safety of their families and a good harvest.
The temple's Rokusai Nembutsu is said to have been performed for over 300 years.
On the night of August 16th, watched by about 20 temple parishioners, 11 people in white yukata robes beat the drums powerfully in time with three people who struck a gong. Every time the small drum went up and down, the tassels attached to the drumsticks fluttered.
In the past, only men participated, but women are now being encouraged to participate. Miyu Imanishi (18 years-old), a third-year student at Rakuhoku High School who has been participating since she was in the first grade of elementary school, said, "I saw my grandfather doing it and wanted to do it. Summer never ends without it."
Her elder sister, Mai Imanishi (24 years-old), a civil servant, spoke forcefully, "There are not many young people in the area so it will be difficult to take over the tradition, but I want to protect it."
