The , also called , is the building within a Shinto shrine where the sacred dance (kagura

Kagura

- Fictional characters :*Kagura Tsuchimiya, the protagonist of Ga-rei*Kagura, an InuYasha character*Kagura Sohma , a Fruits Basket character*Kagura, an Azumanga Daioh character*Ten'nōzu Kagura, a Speed Grapher character...

) and music are offered to the kami

Kami

is the Japanese word for the spirits, natural forces, or essence in the Shinto faith. Although the word is sometimes translated as "god" or "deity", some Shinto scholars argue that such a translation can cause a misunderstanding of the term...

during ceremonies.
It was originally just a temporary stage, first mentioned in a 9th century text describing a maidono built in front of Hirano Shrine

Hirano Shrine

The is a Shinto shrine in the city of Kyoto. This shrine is known and popular for its gardens and many trees.-History:The shrine was established in the year 794 by Emperor Kammu when the capital was transferred to Heian-kyō from Nagaoka-kyō. From the earliest years, the shrine has been often...

. In about a century it had become a permanent shrine feature, and its use was extended until its function as a worship hall prevailed over the original. It is now used also for weddings and Noh

Noh

, or - derived from the Sino-Japanese word for "skill" or "talent" - is a major form of classical Japanese musical drama that has been performed since the 14th century. Many characters are masked, with men playing male and female roles. Traditionally, a Noh "performance day" lasts all day and...

 plays. Some scholars believe the heiden

Heiden (Shinto)

A is the part within a Shinto shrine's compound used to house offerings. It normally consists of a connecting section linking the honden to the haiden . If the shrine is built in the so-called Ishi-no-ma-zukuri style, its stone pavement is lower than the floor of the other two rooms, and it is...

, or hall of worship, has its origins in the kagura-den.