Ryukyu "Izaino" Ritual Practiced on Kudara Island

RYUKYU (Okinawa) on 3 October 1969 issued a First Day Cover dedicated to the primitive religion practiced on Kudara Island. "Izaino" or prayer for virgin novices was one of the stamps featured in their Traditional Folk Festivities, Series 3. The postmark cancellation affixed to this stamp originated from Naha Higashi, Ryukyu.

Kudara, a small island with a population of more than 500, lies 5.3 km off the southern coast of Okinawa. On this island a primitive religion, headed by two "Noro" or hereditary priestesses, is still practiced. Women between the ages of 30 to 70 serve them in one of four capacities according to age. "Izaino" is one of these rituals. It is a four day ceremony, held every 12 years, to initiate  30 to 41 year old women as novices or "Nanchu".