Guide
The Karuta Hajime-shiki, held every year on January 3rd at Yasaka Jinja, is one of the most significant New Year's rituals that brightens the start of the year in Kyoto. During this ceremony, "Karuta Princesses" dressed in elegant Heian-period court attire, along with young attendants (Doji and Dojo), perform the traditional game of Hyakunin Isshu. As the reader recites the first half of a poem, participants compete to quickly grab the card containing the second half. This display of speed and precision beautifully symbolizes the essence of Japanese traditional play and culture. Following the competition, a formal presentation of the stunning Heian-style costumes takes place. It is a profound opportunity to experience the beauty of Japanese historical attire and culture within the sacred grounds of a historic Kyoto shrine.
The ceremony is deeply rooted in the legends of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the primary deity of Yasaka Jinja. It is said that when Susanoo-no-Mikoto married Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, he expressed his joy through a poem: "Yakumo tatsu Izumo yaegaki Yamagoro ni Yaegaki tsukuru Sono yaegaki wo." This poem is considered one of the earliest examples of the 5-7-5-7-7 waka structure in Japan. Because of this connection, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is revered by many poets, and many poems have been dedicated to him over the centuries. Based on this rich historical background, the Karuta Hajime-shiki is preserved as an important ritual to welcome the New Year.
The greatest draw of the Karuta Hajime-shiki is the sight of the "Karuta Princesses" and young attendants in magnificent Junihitoe (twelve-layered robes). The tension of the competition, where participants snatch up cards at the exact moment the poem is read, is truly captivating. The ceremony concludes with a formal display of the exquisite costumes, allowing visitors to admire the intricate details and beauty of traditional Japanese fashion. This event creates a truly special atmosphere for those visiting Kyoto in early January.
This is a seasonal event held exclusively on January 3rd. The ceremony is scheduled to begin around 1:00 PM, though the exact timing may vary depending on the progress of the ritual. Including this in your New Year's itinerary in Kyoto allows you to touch the heart of Japanese New Year traditions. Since January is the height of winter in Kyoto, it is highly recommended to dress warmly before heading to the shrine grounds.
The Karuta Hajime-shiki is a spectator-style event. You can observe the high-speed movement of the players competing for the cards and appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship of the Heian-period costumes. It is a wonderful visual opportunity to understand how the traditional game of "Karuta" has been elevated into a sophisticated ritual.
Yasaka Jinja is located in the Gion area, the famous entertainment and historic district of Kyoto. The surrounding area is filled with numerous historic temples, shrines, and traditional streets. Before or after the ceremony, you can enjoy exploring local restaurants, Kyoto-style cafes, and souvenir shops. The shrine also offers excellent access to other major sightseeing spots in the Higashiyama area.
While many nearby shops and major attractions accept credit cards, it is highly recommended to carry cash (Japanese Yen) for offerings at the shrine or for small purchases at local vendors around the shrine grounds.
Basic English signage and information are available at Yasaka Jinja and the surrounding area, but please note that detailed explanations of the ritual's nuances may be limited to Japanese.
No advance reservation is required to watch the Karuta Hajime-shiki. Simply arrive at the Yasaka Jinja shrine grounds at the designated time.
January in Kyoto is quite cold. Please prepare for the winter weather by bringing a heavy coat, scarf, and gloves. As the shrine grounds feature gravel paths and steps, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
When the ritual is in progress, please be mindful of other worshippers. While photography is generally permitted, please ensure you do not disrupt the ceremony or the movement of the participants.
Due to the presence of gravel paths and uneven surfaces within the shrine grounds, accessibility for wheelchairs may be limited in certain areas. We recommend checking the paths in advance.
Please maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor while observing the sacred ritual. Be considerate of both the participants and other visitors to ensure a solemn atmosphere.