#Japan #Satonoka Project #Shinjuku #Namahage #Oga City

Oga City's NAMAHAGE Event in Shinjuku Kabukicho 2025

Japan Digital Service, Inc. (JDS) has announced an exciting event titled “NAMAHAGE in Shinjuku Kabukicho 2025,” set to take place on December 21, 2025, in the heart of Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku district. This vibrant event focuses on promoting Oga City in Akita Prefecture to both inbound tourists and Japanese residents, leveraging its cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

Oga City is renowned for its unique tradition of Namahage, an integral part of its cultural identity. This event stems from the city’s comprehensive plan aimed at revitalizing the region, preserving cultural heritage, and tackling declining population issues. The initiative, dubbed the satonoka Project, leverages JDS’s extensive network and resources to enhance local governments' communication capabilities while addressing various community challenges. Following the success of last year’s initiatives, JDS continues to partner with Oga City for this year’s promotional efforts.

The event will take place primarily around the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, a central hub for entertainment and activity in Shinjuku. Attendees can expect a plethora of engaging activities, including live performances of the traditional “Namahage Taiko” drumming, a showcase of Oga’s local products, and screenings of promotional films about the city. The outdoor Cinema City Plaza will serve as a viewing area to attract visitors, encouraging them to consider Oga City for their next travel destination.

JDS has teamed up with Akita Cable Television, known for its excellent production skills, to enhance the visibility and impact of the event. By combining their strengths with the outreach power of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, they aim to effectively solve the challenges Oga City faces while promoting its rich tradition.

We will present various engaging segments during the event:

• - Namahage Taiko Live Performance: A unique blend of traditional Japanese drumming and the Oga Namahage tradition will take center stage at the KABUKICHO TOWER STAGE and will be projected onto the KABUKICHO TOWER VISION screen.
• - Oga Product Exhibition: Located in front of the Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, this exhibition will sell local Oga products and souvenirs. Interactive workshops will let attendees create Namahage crafts, and there will be opportunities for photos with Namahage mascots.
• - Satonoka Project Programming: Leading up to the event, special programming focusing on Oga and Akita will be broadcast on satonoka 4K and satonoka TV, including a five-hour feature showcasing highlights from the “Namahage Shinto Festival 2025.”

The event will run from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with free admission, allowing attendees to come and go as they please. There will be opportunities for dining at the KABUKI CAFÉ while enjoying various performances.

Those attending will also have a chance to participate in a survey and enter a lottery for a chance to win exclusive Oga Namahage merchandise, such as original stickers and hand towels.

What is Namahage?

UNESCO designated this tradition as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, symbolizing autumn and winter festivities in Oga. On New Year's Eve, young men dressed as Namahage visit homes, calling out “Is there anyone crying? Any disobedient children?” to encourage good behavior and ensure good harvests and health.

About Oga City

Located on the Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture, Oga City is renowned for its scenic coastline and abundant natural resources, making it a designated national park area. It’s rich in culture, history, and offers marvelous landscapes.

This event not only promotes tourism but also strengthens local community ties through shared cultural experiences. JDS continues to expand its roles in local revitalization by collaborating with various organizations to bring the charm of regions like Oga City to a wider audience.

To learn more about the event, visit satonoka.