Mikagura is a form of Japanese ceremonial music and dance which originated in rituals first conducted more than 1,000 years ago by Shinto shrine priests for the Imperial Court of Japan. This performance by the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine (鶴岡八幡宮) from Kamakura Japan involves rare traditional musical instruments and a mesmerizing dance that has not changed much from the time of ancient Shinto rituals.

The 24 musicians and dancers seen here in elegant traditional costumes are presided over by Head Priest Shigeho Yoshida, who believes in the importance of sharing indigenous Shinto concepts of reverence for the spirit in nature with
people around the world.