List of Ritual Rokusai Nenbutsu Dances in 2025

Rokusai Nenbutsu are ritual dances held throughout Kyoto and a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. In 2022, together with 41 other ritual dances performed throughout Japan, jointly called Furyu-odori dances, have been registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.

This folk performing art is accompanied by the sound of gongs, drums and the chanting of Buddhist prayers. Kūya (903-972), a famous traveling monk, is said to have created it in an effort to spread faith among the general public.

The name of this art originates from the “Rokusai” days – a period of austerity and abstinence practiced each month in certain Buddhist beliefs. Around the 15th century, Noh and Kyogen plays were incorporated into its performances, popularizing it further. From around this time, Rokusai Nenbutsu began to be performed around Obon (August 13th – 16th), regardless of when the “Rokusai” days would occur.