Kinen-sai Festival at Atsuta Jingu

Event Overview

The Kinen-sai festival, also known as 'Toshigoi-no-matsuri,' is a vital Shinto ritual held at Atsuta Jingu to pray for a bountiful harvest. As spring approaches, the ritual celebrates the start of the farming season, offering thanks and prayers for a successful harvest. This sacred ceremony is performed not only at the main shrine but also across all 42 affiliated shrines, including the Mita Jinja, which is dedicated to the deity of agriculture. It is a profound expression of the deep connection between Japanese Shinkyo traditions and ancient agricultural culture.

Highlights and Experiences

The most captivating highlight of Kinen-sai is the 'Otogui-no-gi' and the 'Karakami-mai' dance, held at Mita Jinja starting from 2:00 PM. During the Otogui ceremony, ritual practitioners call out to crows and toss 'Shitogi' (sacred rice morsels) onto the roof of the ceremonial hall. This unique and mystical sight is based on the ancient belief of offering food to the crows first. Additionally, from 10:00 AM, the solemn festivities proceed through the main shrine and various sub-shrines, offering a rare opportunity to touch the very essence of Japanese spiritual culture.

Schedule

The Kinen-sai festival will be held on February 17, 2027.

• *10:00 AM**: Ceremonies begin at the Main Shrine, the Annex, and various affiliated shrines.
• *2:00 PM**: The 'Otogui-no-gi' (Crow Offering) and 'Karakami-mai' (Dance) at Mita Jinja.

Venue and Access

The event takes place within the grounds of Atsuta Jingu (Main Shrine, Annex, Mita Jinja, and affiliated shrines).

Atsuta Jingu is easily accessible from central Nagoya. The following stations are the most convenient:

• *Meitetsu Jingu Mae Station**: The most recommended route. The station is connected to the 'atsuta nagAya' shopping mall.
• *JR Atsuta Station**: A convenient option if you are traveling via the JR line.
• *Subway Jingu Nishi Station or Atsuta Jingu Denmacho Station**: The closest stations if using the subway system.

It is approximately a 10 to 15-minute walk from each station to the Main Shrine.

Participation Tips

Kinen-sai is a quiet and solemn ritual. Visitors are expected to maintain a respectful and silent demeanor to avoid disturbing the sacred proceedings. The 'Otogui-no-gi' at Mita Jinja is a highly unique ritual; understanding the deep meaning behind the movements of the practitioners and the handling of the offerings will greatly enrich your experience.

Clothing, Items, and Etiquette

• *Clothing**: As this is a visit to a sacred shrine, please wear modest clothing that is not overly revealing. Since the shrine grounds contain many gravel paths, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
• *Payment**: For details regarding Goshuin (temple stamps) or other offerings, please consult the official website.
• *Reservations**: Please check the official website to see if any specific prior registration is required for this event.
• *Etiquette**: Photography is prohibited in certain areas, such as the inner sanctum of the Main Shrine. Please follow all local signs and instructions from the staff.