Guida
The Karuta Hajime-shiki, held annually on January 3rd at Yasaka Shrine, is one of the most significant New Year rituals that colors the start of the year in Kyoto. During this ceremony, 'Karuta Princesses' dressed in magnificent Heian-period court attire, along with young boys and girls, perform the traditional game of Hyakunin Isshu. As the reader recites the first part of a poem, the participants compete to swiftly grab the card containing the second part. This display of speed and precision is a beautiful embodiment of Japanese traditional play and culture. Following the match, a formal presentation of the exquisite traditional garments takes place. It is a rare opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of ancient Japanese fashion within the historic grounds of a Kyoto shrine.
The ceremony is deeply rooted in the legends of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the main deity of Yasaka Shrine. It is said that Susanoo-no-Mikoto expressed his joy upon marrying Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto through a famous poem: 'Yakumo tatsu Izumo yaezaki...' This poem is considered one of the earliest examples of the 5-7-5-7-7 waka poetry structure in Japan. Because Susanoo-no-micro is revered as a figure associated with poetry, the Karuta Hajime-shiki serves as a sacred ritual to honor this poetic heritage and the spirit of the New Year.
The greatest highlight is the high-speed Hyakunin Isshu match performed by the Karuta Princesses and children wearing Junihitoe (twelve-layered robes). The tension of the participants racing to grab the cards is truly captivating. Additionally, the formal unveiling of the beautiful, colorful Heian-period costumes provides a stunning visual spectacle, making it one of the most iconic sights of early January in Kyoto.
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 shift depending on the progress of the ritual. We recommend incorporating this into your New Year sightseeing itinerary in Kyoto. Since January is the height of winter in Kyoto, please ensure you are well-prepared for the cold before heading to the shrine grounds.
While the ceremony is a spectator event, it offers a profound cultural experience. You can observe the intense speed of the poetry-matching and the intricate details of the traditional Heian-period costumes. It is a wonderful way to visually understand how the traditional game of 'Karuta' has been elevated into a sacred ritual.
Yasaka Shrine is located in the Gion district, the heart of Kyoto's traditional culture. The surrounding area is filled with historic temples, shrines, and beautifully preserved streets. Before or after the ceremony, you can enjoy local dining, traditional Kyoto-style cafes, and souvenir shopping in the nearby Higashiyama area.
It is recommended to carry cash (Japanese Yen) for shrine offerings or nearby shops. While some nearby establishments accept cards, many traditional shops and small stalls in the area may only accept cash.
While basic English signage is available around Yasaka Shrine and the Gion area, detailed explanations of the specific ritual nuances may be limited to Japanese.
No advanced reservation is required to watch the Karuta Hajime-shiki. Simply arrive at the shrine grounds by the scheduled time.
January in Kyoto is very cold. Please bring heavy coats, scarves, and gloves to stay warm. As the shrine grounds feature gravel paths and stairs, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Please be respectful of the ritual. While photography is generally allowed, ensure you do not obstruct the view of other worshippers or interfere with the ceremony's progress.
The shrine grounds contain uneven surfaces, gravel paths, and steps, which may present challenges for wheelchair users. Please plan your route accordingly.
Please maintain a quiet and respectful attitude while the sacred ritual is in progress to honor the participants and the deity.