Namahage Museum

★The Namahage of Mayama: Tradition Passed Down Through Generations★
In the Mayama district, people don masks without horns, a tradition that has been passed down for generations, and walk around the houses in pairs of two. Namahage do not recklessly enter homes; the decision to allow them in lies with the host of the house. A person designated as the "saki-dachi" confirms in advance whether the Namahage may enter. Once given the signal, two young men dressed as Namahage burst in with loud cries of "Waa!" The movements of Mayama's Namahage follow long-standing customs, and they do not merely wander about aimlessly.
Upon entering the home, they immediately stomp their feet seven times (shiko). Only after this can they walk around inside. As they roam, they shout rough voices like "Smells like laziness!" and "Is there any lazy person here!" while firmly stepping on the tatami mats. The host calms the frantic Namahage and treats them with respect, offering them a meal. Before sitting down at the table, the Namahage stomp their feet five more times. As the Namahage growl "Waa! Waa!", the host presents them with drinks and snacks. After various exchanges between the host and Namahage, they pray for a bountiful harvest next year, stand up again, stomp three times, and continue to roam the house. Before leaving, the Namahage declare, "We'll come back again next year!" as they head to the next house. The Namahage stomp their feet to ensure the children of that house remain healthy and happy, following the unique custom of Mayama called "Seven-Five-Three": seven stomps upon entering, five before sitting down, and three when standing up. This Namahage tradition is still passed down from generation to generation by the local people.

★Namahage Museum Interior Introduction★
▶Gathering of Namahage
Over 150 diverse Namahage masks used throughout the city of Oga are on display, showcasing an impressive spectacle.
▶Mystical Hall
This area highlights the unique natural environment of Oga that has nurtured and passed down Namahage through the display of traditional crafts like wooden boats, videos, graphic panels, and computer search devices.
▶Namahage Heritage Hall
It depicts the ongoing Namahage events in Oga, along with customs and the spirits of those who pass them down. A film about the New Year's Eve Namahage customs in Oga, titled "A Night of Namahage," is screened every 30 minutes from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
▶Exhibition Corner
Various exhibitions are held showcasing masks used in folk events similar to Namahage, both in Akita Prefecture and abroad.
▶Digital Namahage Transformation Corner
Experience a digital transformation into Namahage using AR technology. Visitors can download a dedicated app and use their smartphones to engage. Masks and accessories can be customized for a more realistic experience, enjoyable for all ages.
▶Real-time Namahage Mask Carving Demonstration by Chiaki Ishikawa
The only Namahage mask carver in the world, "Chiaki Ishikawa," demonstrates hand-carving of Namahage masks 3 to 4 days a week, on an irregular schedule.
▶Namahage Information Corner
Information about Oga's Namahage can be explored through books and touch panel devices.
▶Gift Shop with Original and Limited Edition Namahage Goods
A wide variety of local specialties and souvenirs, including exclusive Namahage merchandise only available here, are offered for sale.