Traditional Shishi Odori deer dance performance

One of Japan’s most enigmatic folk traditions, the Gyozan-ryu Maikawa Shishi Odori is a regional form of deer dance native to Iwate prefecture in northern Japan. Dancers wear elaborate deer headpieces while performing energetic movements that combine jumping with striking drums strapped to their chests. This tradition, which reflects Japan’s deep reverence for nature, is usually performed to pray for a bountiful harvest and honour the spirits.

This special showcase, ‘Dancing with the Land: Special Performance of the Gyozan-ryu Maikawa Shishi Odori from Ichinoseki, Iwate’, will take place for one day only at the 9th-floor Festival Plaza at Hankyu Umeda Department Store. There will be two performances, at 11am and 1pm, each lasting roughly 20 minutes.

The performance is part of Hankyu Umeda’s month-long Japan and Me event (April 1–28) celebrating Japanese heritage and craftsmanship. While you’re there, also check out the Momotaro Jeans pop-up on the 8th floor from April 1–14. This is a good opportunity to shop for one of the most renowned Japanese denim brands without travelling to its home base in Kojima, Okayama prefecture.