Namahage Museum & Kanpuzan Observatory

OVERVIEW

Delve into the culture of the Oga Peninsula by watching a highly unusual folkloric performance and then enjoy a 360° view of the gorgeous peninsula from atop a revolving observatory. At the Namahage Museum, you will see a rare collection of demonic masks and straw capes worn during an annual New Year’s ritual that dates to ancient times. During the ritual, young men dressed as ogre deities in frightening-looking costumes burst into random houses and berate children for being lazy or ill-mannered. To enhance your understanding of this odd tradition – which ironically is meant to chase away evil spirits – you will watch a rousing Namahage performance at the adjoining folkloric museum. It will give you plenty to reflect upon as you take in the panoramic views from the observatory on volcanically formed Mount Kanpuzan. As the observatory revolves, you will see the Sea of Japan, Mount Chokai and Japan’s sole remaining virgin beech forest.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Browse museum exhibits related to a Namahage ritual unique to the Oga Peninsula.
• Watch a performance of demonic-looking Namahage actors at a folkloric museum.
• Behold the peninsula’s ever-changing landscape from a revolving observatory.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.