Intangible Folk Cultural Properties Requiring Documentation of Ibaraki

Anba Bayashi is a folk musical tradition tied to Ōsugi Shrine (Anba-sama) in Inashiki City, Ibaraki Prefecture. Originally performed to ward off epidemics and pray for safe travel by sea and river, it was selected in 1978 as a nationally recognized intangible folk cultural property. This article explores its history, cultural significance, festival highlights, and information for visitors traveling to the Ōsugi Shrine area.

Each November 23, two of Japan's rarest folk puppet performances are dedicated at Ogushi Inari Shrine in Mito, Ibaraki. Ogushi no Sasara and Ono no Miroku, performed from inside bottomless floats and dating to the mid-Edo period, were selected by the Agency for Cultural Affairs in 1973 as Intangible Folk Cultural Properties for which Records Should Be Made. Discover this uniquely local treasure of Ibaraki.

Held each August 15 at Washi Shrine in Tsuchiura City, Ibaraki Prefecture, the Ohata no Karakasa Mando is a rain-prayer ritual dating from the mid-Edo period. A giant bamboo umbrella, five meters wide and six meters tall, is rigged with fireworks ignited by a rope-fire technique, sending sparks cascading like rain. Designated nationally as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property requiring documentary preservation, this guide explains the festival's origins, highlights, access, and surrounding attractions for international visitors.

Ibaraki’s registered properties across designations, with featured heritage and travel notes.

The complete kokuhō catalogue — browse by prefecture, period, and category.

Nationwide jūyō bunkazai — architecture, sculpture, painting, crafts, and documents.