Shinkosai is one of the most significant festivals held at Kashima Jingu, a shrine dedicated to Takemikazuchi-no-Okami, the deity of martial arts and the founding of Japan. The ritual involves the movement of the sacred Mikoshi (portable shrine) from the main shrine to the temporary shrine, as the deity travels through the local community. This high-status ceremony, steeped in history, is celebrated with great reverence by local residents and participants.
Highlights & Experiences
Shinkosai offers several breathtaking spectacles that will captivate every visitor.
*Chochin-machi (Lantern Ceremony)**: Taking place along Omachi-dori and toward the Kashima Jingu Choba area, this is a truly dynamic sight. Approximately 20 people work together to hoist large green bamboo poles adorned with countless small lanterns, which are then cast into the bonfire in front of the gate as a sacred offering.
*Mikoshi and Dashi Parades**: As the Mikoshi carries the deity through the streets, five traditional Dashi floats parade to the rhythmic sounds of Kashima-bayashi music. The combination of the music echoing through the night streets and the energetic procession offers a quintessential Japanese festival experience.
*Sacred Rituals**: The event follows a sacred progression, beginning with the ritual at the main shrine and moving the deity from the main sanctuary to the temporary shrine and back again, creating a profound spiritual atmosphere.
Schedule
Shinkosai is held annually over two days on September 1st and 2nd. Please note that specific timings may vary depending on the year.
*10:00**: Reisai (Annual Ritual) at Kashima Jingu Main Shrine
*16:00**: Chochin-machi (Lantern Ceremony) from Omachi-dori to Kashima Jingu Choba
*18:00**: Dashi Parade (5-town program) at Kashima Jingu First Parking Lot
*20:00**: Shinkosai Procession from Kashima Jingu Main Shrine through Omachi-dori to the Temporary Shrine
*10:00**: Gyoku-sai (Temporary Shrine Ritual) at Kashima Jingu Temporary Shrine
*15:00**: Kanko-sai (Return Ceremony) from Kashima Jingu Temporary Shrine through Omachi-dori to the Main Shrine
*Around 18:00**: Dashi Parade (Annual Handover) at Shinmachi-dori
Venue & Access
The festival takes place within the Kashima Jingu shrine grounds and the surrounding areas in Kashima City.
Item
Details
Venue
Kashima Jingu Shrine Grounds and Surrounding Areas
Visitor Tips
Shinkosai is centered around high-energy evening events, such as the fire-filled Chochin-machi. Prepare for movement in the dark and crowds to get a close view of the procession. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere along the surrounding streets like Omachi-dori and Shinmachi-dori.
Practical Information
*Clothing**: As most events take place outdoors at night, we recommend comfortable clothing and layers to adjust to temperature changes. When watching the Chochin-machi fire ceremony, please maintain a safe distance.
*Payment**: Please check the official website for any specific details regarding payments related to the festival.
*Reservations**: No advance reservation is required to watch the festival, but due to heavy traffic restrictions, using public transportation is highly recommended.
*Etiquette**: As this is a sacred ritual, please maintain a respectful and quiet attitude to avoid disrupting the religious proceedings.
