Yasugi-bushi is a traditional folk song from Yasugi City, Shimane Prefecture, dating from the Edo period.

It was designated an Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Yasugi City in 2014 and is still popular with the people.

The Yasugi-bushi Preservation Society, founded in 1911, has been organised throughout the country and currently has 57 branches nationwide. Every year, qualification examinations and national congresses are held.

Dojosukui Dance

（Dance to scoop up the loach）

Yasugi-bushi begins with a 'song', followed by 'shamisen', 'tsuzumi', 'zeni-daiko' and 'odori' (dance), which is commonly known as 'dojosukui dance'.

Dojosukui is a unique dance that imitates the scooping up of loach.

The characteristic walking style with the hips in the air and facial expressions such as 'laughter' are attractive!

The Dojosukui dance has the following stories.

(1) Mud splashes on the face.

(2) The scooped up loach runs away

(3) A leech got on his leg.

In the dance, which lasts about three minutes, the dancers express themselves expressively in time with the music, songs and rhythm.

It is a wonderful dance that makes even those watching smile.

Here are some of the costumes for dojosukui.

Barefoot, wearing trousers and kasuri, a penny on the nose (a real Kan'ei Tsuho!) and a hokkamuri. and wear a hokkamuri (a traditional Japanese headdress).

Tie a fish basket around your waist, hold a colander and you're done.