Mibiki no Shishimai

This lion dance（shishimai） is rare in Noto, where there are many hoto festivals, and is an impressive festival that retains its ancient traditions. It is said to have been learned in Etchu in the middle of the Meiji period (1868-1912), but there is no lion dance in Toyama where it originated, so the details are unknown. Led by a portable shrine and flags, the lion dance is performed at key points as it makes its way around the district to the lively sounds of drums and flutes. The lion dance is said to be a rare event in Noto, with its heroic and gorgeous dance performance being the highlight. The lion dance is performed by “male lions”, “monkey children”, “jiji masks” and “baba masks” to the accompaniment of flutes and drums.

Flow of the lion dance performance

①　Shinto ritual performed by priests facing the portable shrine
②　A speech of thanks for the congratulatory rites
③　Ohayashi (musical accompaniment) with flutes and drums
④　Three performances by Jiji masks and Baba masks
⑤　Lion-killing performance by Baba masks