Meigetsu Kangen-sai

Event Overview

Meigetsu Kangen-sai is a traditional ritual held at the historic Shimogamo Shrine within the sacred Tadasu-no-Mori forest in Kyoto. This event is held to celebrate the beauty of the mid-autumn harvest moon. It preserves the ancient tradition of "Kangen-sai" (Gagaku music and dance) dating back to the Heian period. Set in a poetic atmosphere adorned with silver grass (susuki), the performance offers a rare chance to experience Japan's classical aesthetic through music and movement.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is the traditional dance performed to the sounds of Gagaku, illuminated by the soft moonlight within the Tadasu-no-Mori forest. The sight of swaying silver grass combined with the refined melodies of ancient instruments transports visitors back to the elegance of the Heian era. Experiencing this ancient way of appreciating the moon in a sacred forest is a truly luxurious way to connect with Japanese culture. We recommend listening closely to the melodies echoing through the night silence to fully immerse yourself in the mystical atmosphere.

Date & Schedule

This event is scheduled for September 25, 2026. The performance is expected to run from approximately 17:30 to 21:00. This is a special time to enjoy the long autumn nights. Historically, this event is held in September to coincide with the most beautiful moon of the season.

Venue & Access

The venue is Shimogamo Shrine (Tadasu-no-Mori), located in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto.

• *By Train**: Approximately a 10-minute walk from Keihan Electric Railway "Demachiyanagi Station."
• *By Bus**: From JR or Kintetsu "Kyoto Station" or Subway "Karasuma Line - Kitaoji Station," take a city bus to the "Shimogamo Jinja-mae" stop and walk to the shrine.

Tips for Visitors

Meigetsu Kangen-sai is free to attend, allowing anyone to experience Japanese traditional culture easily. However, as this is an outdoor nighttime event, please prepare accordingly. To fully enjoy the moonlight and the music, we recommend checking the weather and local conditions in advance.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

As the event takes place outdoors at night, please dress in layers to accommodate temperature changes. It can get quite chilly in the autumn night air, so bringing a light jacket or wrap is highly recommended. For footwear, choose comfortable shoes suitable for the gravel paths and natural terrain of the shrine grounds. As this is a sacred ritual, please maintain a respectful attitude toward the shrine and the natural surroundings. For specific rules or reservation requirements, please check the official website.