The little town of Takachiho, where Shinsen is located, holds a special place in Japan's mythology. Long ago, the deity Niniginomikoto descended from heaven with gifts for the emperor, and all over Japan, dances called kagura are performed to mark this event. The people of Takachiho perform their own version, called Yokagura, which dates back over 1,000 years and is a registered Intangible Important Cultural Property.
Takachiho Shrine is one of the most important sites in all of Shinto. The shrine itself is almost 2,000 years old, and is home to the 88 deities of the surrounding area. It is renowned as a place to pray for bountiful harvests, good luck and happy marriages.
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