Munakata Taisha Autumn Grand Festival (Tajima Hojoe)

Event Overview

Munakata Taisha is one of Japan's oldest and most significant shrines, featured in the ancient chronicles of the Nihon Shoki and Kojiki. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Autumn Grand Festival is a vital ritual to offer thanks for the year's harvest and prayers to the three goddesses of Munakata. This is a rare opportunity to witness the profound spiritual culture of Japan through ancient maritime rituals and sacred ceremonies.

Highlights & What to Expect

The festival's greatest draws are the traditional Shinto rituals performed within a deeply sacred atmosphere. The Yabusame (horseback archery) ceremony and the Kaisho Shinko (sea procession), where a fleet of boats moves in formation across the water, are truly spectacular sights. You can also experience the cultural depth of the festival through traditional ritual dances performed by priests and local practitioners. It is a breathtaking moment where Japanese mythology comes to life right before your eyes.

Schedule

The 2025 Autumn Grand Festival will be held from September 30 to October 3.

• *September 30 (Tue)**
• 17:00 Soja Jinjusha Festival
• 18:00 Yoimiya Festival
• *October 1 (Wed)**
• 08:30 Nakatsumiya Festival (Oshima Port departure)
• 09:20 Oshima Ferry Formation
• 09:30 Oshima Port Festival (Start of Kaisho Shinko sea procession)
• 10:40 Arrival at Kanzu Port
• 11:10 Kanzu Port Festival (Start of land procession)
• 12:00 Henjumiya Entrance & Ritual
• *October 2 (Thu)**
• 08:00 Yabusame (Horseback Archery) Dedication
• 11:00 Reisai (Main Ritual)
• Post-ritual: Traditional Dance Dedication
• *October 3 (Fri)**
• 10:00 Takamiya Festival (Second and Third Shrines)
• 11:00 Autumn Shrine Festival (Wakuya Dance)
• 14:00 Kancha Festival (Tea Offering)
• 18:00 Takamiya Preparation (Eternal Dance & Ancient Songs)

Venue & Access

Access to the main venue, Munakata Taisha (Henjumiya), and surrounding shrines (Nakatsumiya, Okitsumiya, Takamiya, etc.) is available via public transportation or car.

Visitor Tips

This festival is a highly solemn religious event. Visitors are asked to observe the rituals quietly and with great respect. The movements of the sea and land processions follow strict traditional protocols. As the location of the ceremonies changes daily (Henjumiya, Nakatsumiya, Kanzu Port, etc.), we strongly recommend checking the detailed schedule in advance.

Practical Information

• *Attire**: We recommend neat, respectful clothing suitable for visiting a shrine. As you may be standing outdoors to watch the Yabusame or processions, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
• *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required to observe the festival, but please check the official website for the most up-to-date program details.
• *Etiquette**: Please be mindful of photography rules and maintain a quiet demeanor during the sacred rituals to avoid disturbing the ceremony.