Getting to know: Kaguraden

Welcome to the newbies. ( * * ) / This is the sixth in a series about getting to know a Shinto shrine. Our first step was a torii gate followed by shimenawa, shide, temizuya and then Komainu. Please check the forum for other useful links. Like this one.

All of these past swaps are available. =D If you'd like a copy, drop me a PM.

Back to our virtual shrine...

Up the stairs and past the komainu we're in the main shrine precinct. Before us is a roofed, raised stage. Our virtual shrine is a large one, so this stage mirrors this. There's even a place for musicians on the side. Smaller, regional shrines have smiliar stages on a relative scale.

This stage is the Kaguraden. It is here that the miko of the shrine perform dances, kagura, for the entertainment of the kami.

Just like the previous swap, I want to get you REALLY looking at kaguraden. Go out on the web and search for kaguraden. Find three examples to send to your partners, and of those three, explain to your partners which you like best and why. It doesn’t need to be an essay, just a simple, isn’t this gorgeous? is good enough, but more is better. Sincerity is key.

Keep an eye on what appeals to you and why; which did you prefer; enclosed, open, massive or intimate? What is your ideal?

Immerse yourself, even if it’s just for a few minutes. This is your time.