Mystic Shrine Maiden

Tōko works as a shrine maiden. Her days are full of joy, as she would be called out by the village people to play or sometimes simply savor time with nothing spectacular to do. One day, Tōko finds out that the village festival which she has been waiting for with great anticipation will be cancelled due to an old superstition. Tōko, who wants to make the festival happen, starts preparations against the advice of the villagers. Events unfold in an unexpected direction when she meets a strange little girl by the lake.

Directed by Takeshi Sone, Mystic Shrine Maiden leans on a strong ensemble — Miyu Yoshimoto, Yua Shiraishi, Takayuki Haranishi — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2022.