Tsukinami-sai

Event Overview

Tsukinami-sai is a traditional ritual and prayer ceremony held at Utsunomiya Futarayama Jinja. Located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, this historic shrine has long been a center of faith for the local community. This event serves as a significant time to offer gratitude to the deities and pray for safety and prosperity during important life milestones.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The main highlight is the opportunity to directly experience the Japanese culture of 'Gokito' (formal prayer). Beyond simple sightseeing, you can connect with the unique spiritual essence of Japan by offering prayers for specific wishes such as health, safety, or success.

Rituals are tailored to various life stages, such as 'Hatsumiyamai' or 'Shichi-Go-San' for a child's growth, 'Anzan Kigan' to celebrate a new life, or even ceremonies for adulthood. There are also prayers for modern needs, such as 'Sharyo Harai' (vehicle safety blessings). Observing people offering prayers within this sacred atmosphere offers a profound look into the traditional Japanese way of life.

Date & Schedule

The event is scheduled for:

• Date: August 1, 2026

Note: Prayers are conducted every 30 minutes between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM (last session). Reception is available from 8:30 AM to 3:50 PM. As there may be waiting times during shrine festivals, we recommend arriving with plenty of time.

Venue & Access

The venue is Utsunomiya Futarayama Jinja, located in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture.

Please check the official website or local signage for detailed access information.

Participation Tips

To ensure a smooth experience when receiving a prayer, please note the following:

1. Purpose of Prayer: There are various types depending on your needs, such as Shichi-Go-San, childbirth blessings, protection from misfortune, or traffic safety.

2. Reservations: Generally, no prior reservation is required. You can apply directly at the shrine office on the day of your visit.

3. For Childbirth Blessings (Anzan Kigan): It is common to visit on the 'Inu no Hi' (Day of the Dog) during the 5th month of pregnancy. You may bring your own abdominal band (haraobi) or wear it during the visit.

4. For Hatsumiyamai: If wearing ceremonial clothing, please wait to be guided while wearing the garment.

Belongings, Dress Code & Etiquette

Please observe the following rules when participating in shrine rituals:

• *Payment Method**: Please pay the 'Hatsuo-ryo' (offering fee) in **CASH**. Amounts vary depending on the type of prayer (e.g., 7,000, 10,000, or 20,000 JPY).
• *English Support**: For detailed English explanations, it is recommended to check the official website in advance or confirm the level of local language support.
• *Reservation**: No reservation is needed, but you may need to wait if a festival is in progress.
• *Dress Code**: Depending on the ceremony (such as Shichi-Go-San, Coming of Age, or weddings), traditional or neat, respectful attire is appropriate.
• *Etiquette**: The shrine is a sacred space. Please remain quiet and act with respect. For vehicle safety blessings, please follow the designated parking rules.