Kiku Matsuri (Kiku Festival) at Itsukushima Shrine

Event Overview

The Kiku Matsuri (Chrysanthemum Festival) is a sacred ritual held at Itsukushima Shrine to offer chrysanthemums to the deities, praying for longevity and the warding off of evil. A highlight of this event is the performance of Bugaku—an ancient form of court dance and music—which was brought to Miyajima by the legendary Taira no Kiyomori in the 12th century. This ceremony offers a rare opportunity to witness a living piece of history within the solemn atmosphere of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Highlights

The main attraction is the performance of Bugaku on the high stage. This highly rare art form, which originated in India, China, and Korea, is seldom seen anywhere else in the world today. At Itsukushima Shrine, historic pieces such as Ryuo and Nasori are still performed exactly as they were centuries ago. Surrounded by the elegant beauty of blooming chrysanthemums, you can immerse yourself in the graceful melodies and the profound weight of Japanese history.

Schedule

The Kiku Matsuri is held annually on October 15.

• *Date**: October 15, 2026
• *Start Time**: 5:00 PM (17:00)

Venue and Access

The event takes place at Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima.

To reach the shrine, take a ferry to Miyajima Island. The area is also home to attractions like the Miyajima Ropeway and Miyajima Aquarium (Miyajima Marine).

Visiting Tips

Since the festival begins at 5:00 PM, we recommend enjoying the daytime sightseeing on Miyajima before settling in for the evening ceremony. The Bugाku performance is conducted with great care to protect the historic shrine and maintain the sanctity of the ritual. Please observe the ceremony with respect and quiet contemplation to fully appreciate the traditional art.

Etiquette and Preparation

Photography Rules

To protect the shrine and ensure the performance proceeds smoothly, please follow these rules:

• *No Tripods**: The use of camera tripods is strictly prohibited inside the shrine grounds.
• *No Flash**: Please refrain from using a camera flash when photographing the high stage unless specifically permitted.

Other Information

• *Reservations/Fees**: Please check the official website for the latest details.
• *Clothing**: As the event takes place near the outdoor stage and shrine, please dress appropriately for the evening temperature.