Hachinohe: Warmth in Winter

Overview

In Hachinohe city, on the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture, nature has not always been kind to the people. Rice cultivation has traditionally been difficult in the region due to chilly seasonal winds-called yamase - during the late spring and summer. In the past, residents suffered numerous hardships, including frequent famines. Yet it is this very climate that gave birth to Enburi, which is a ritual folk dance to pray for abundant crops. It's believed that the traditional dance dates back 800 years. Michael Keida from the United States visits Hachinohe to experience how the local people have endured the long, severe winters. He also meets groups of people who work hard to keep their Enburi tradition alive.