Guida
The Kiku Matsuri (Chrysanthemum Festival) at Itsukushima Shrine is a traditional ritual where beautiful chrysanthemums are offered to the deities to ward off evil and pray for longevity. A highlight of this event is the performance of Bugaku—a precious form of ancient court dance and music. This tradition was brought to Miyajima by the powerful statesman Taira no Kiyomori in the 12th century and has been preserved through the centuries. It is a profound cultural experience that blends the spiritual essence of Japanese aesthetics with the majestic atmosphere of the shrine.
The main attraction is the performance of Bugaku on the high stage. Bugaku is an ancient form of music and dance that originated in India, China, and the Korean peninsula, but it is now an extremely rare cultural treasure with very few remaining practitioners in Japan. At Itsukushima Shrine, historic pieces such as 'Ryoo' and 'Nasori' are still performed today. Amidst the solemn atmosphere and the scent of fresh chrysanthemums, you can enjoy a luxurious moment of tranquility while listening to the elegant melodies of the past.
The festival is held annually on October 15th.
The event takes place at Itsukushima Shrine, located on the island of Miyajima in Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue | Itsukushima Shrine |
To reach the shrine, please take a ferry to Miyajima Island. The area is also home to other attractions like the Miyajima Ropeway and the Miyajima Aquarium (Miyajima Marine).
Since the festival begins in the late afternoon (5:00 PM), we recommend completing your sightseeing during the day and preparing for the event as the sun begins to set. The Bugaku performance is conducted with extreme care to protect the historic shrine structures and maintain the sanctity of the ritual. When watching the traditional dance, please maintain a respectful silence to honor the atmosphere and the performers.
To protect the shrine and ensure the performance proceeds without interruption, please follow these rules: