Munakata Taisha Autumn Festival (Tajima Hojoe)

Event Overview

Munakata Taisha is one of Japan's oldest shrines, featured in the ancient chronicles 'Nihon Shoki' and 'Kojiki,' and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This Autumn Festival is a vital ritual to offer thanks for the year's harvest and pray to the deities at Munakata Taisha, which enshrines the three goddesses of the Munakata lineage. It is a rare opportunity to experience Japan's deep spiritual culture through maritime rituals and ancient traditions.

Highlights

The festival's greatest appeal lies in the series of traditional rituals performed in a sacred atmosphere. In particular, the Yabusame (horseback archery) and the Kaijo Shinko (maritime procession), where a fleet of boats moves in formation, are breathtaking spectacles. You can also witness the dedication of traditional dances passed down through generations of priests and local parishioners. Please come and experience the moment where Japanese mythology becomes a living reality.

Schedule

The 2025 Autumn Festival will be held from September 30 to October 3.

• *September 30 (Tue)**
• 17:00 Soja Jishu Festival
• 18:00 Yoimiya Festival
• *October 1 (Wed)**
• 08:30 Nakatsu-miya Ritual (Oshima Port departure)
• 09:20 Oshima Ferry Festival (Fleet formation)
• 09:30 Oshima Port Ritual (Start of Maritime Procession)
• 10:40 Arrival at Kotsu Port
• 11:10 Kotsu Port Ritual (Start of Land Procession)
• 12:00 Henjuku-miya Ritual & Offering Ceremony
• *October 2 (Thu)**
• 08:00 Yabusame (Horseback Archery) Dedication
• 11:00 Reisai (Main Ritual)
• After ceremony: Traditional Dance Dedication
• *October 3 (Fri)**
• 10:00 Takamiya Festival (Second and Third Shrines)
• 11:00 Autumn Shrine Festival (Yasu Dance)
• 14:00 Kensai-sai (Tea Offering Ceremony)
• 18:00 Takamiya Ritual Preparation

Venue and Access

Access to Munakata Taisha (Henjuku-miya) and surrounding shrines (Nakatsu-miya, Okitsu-miya, Takamiya, etc.) is available via public transportation or car.

Participation Tips

The festival is a very solemn ritual. Visitors are asked to remain quiet and show respect during the ceremonies. When the maritime or land processions pass by, you will see movements strictly following traditional forms. As the locations (Henjuku-miya, Nakatsu-miya, Kotsu Port, etc.) vary by date, we strongly recommend checking the detailed schedule in advance.

Essentials and Etiquette

• *Clothing**: We recommend neat, modest attire suitable for visiting a shrine. As you may be standing or moving outdoors to watch Yabusame or other rituals, please wear comfortable walking shoes.
• *Reservations**: No advance reservation is required to view the festival, but please check the official website for the latest ritual progress.
• *Etiquette**: Please be mindful of photography rules and maintain a quiet demeanor during the sacred rituals to avoid disturbing the ceremony.