Susuharai Shinji (Year-End Purification, Joya-sai, and New Year Rituals)
煤祓い神事
Experience a sacred New Year at Tamaki Jinja, a hidden gem within the World Heritage Kumano Sanzan.Tamaki Jinja hosts a series of sacred rituals from the end of the year to the beginning of the new year to celebrate the closing of one year and the birth of the next.
Highlights
About Susuharai Shinji (Year-End Purification, Joya-sai, and New Year Rituals)
- Prepare for the cold: The mountain environment is freezing. Bring a heavy jacket, gloves, and heat packs.
- Bring Cash: Ensure you have plenty of Japanese Yen for offerings and charms.
- Respect the Silence: Experience the sacred atmosphere by maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor.
- Arrive Early: Special items like Ema are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Photo gallery
All photosSchedule
December 26, 2026
Weather forecast
Mon
8/3
25°/20°
100%
Tue
8/4
25°/19°
36%
Wed
8/5
24°/19°
49%
Thu
8/6
24°/20°
100%
Fri
8/7
22°/20°
97%
Sat
8/8
25°/18°
65%
Sun
8/9
24°/17°
73%
Plan your stay & activities
Tips
Payment
Cash is required for offerings and charms; credit cards are generally not accepted.
Language
English support is very limited; use translation apps if needed.
Reservations
Check the official website in advance to see if any participation requires a booking.
Weather
The shrine is in a mountainous area. Bring heavy winter clothing and heat packs.
Etiquette
Maintain silence during sacred rituals and follow local rules regarding photography.
Access
Public transport is limited; please research bus schedules or car access thoroughly before traveling.
Before & After the Event
Reitaisai Festival
Experience the Reitaisai, a traditional ritual held at a historic shrine in Nara. Witness the profound beauty of Japanese spiritual culture and traditional Shinto ceremonies amidst a breathtaking historical landscape.
Held in the same area in 2026-07
Special Exhibition: Nanto Buddhist Paintings — Reviving the Beauty of Nara's Tenpyo Era
Experience the treasures of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston in Nara! A special exhibition tracing the history of Nanto Buddhist paintings. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tenpyo era.
Held in the same area in 2026-07
Tawarakacho Citizen Summer Festival: Kion Matsuri
Experience the Kion Matsuri on July 18–19, 2026. This traditional festival around Tsushima Shrine offers a wonderful way to feel the essence of a Japanese summer and the vibrant spirit of the local community.
Held in the same area in 2026-07
