Shiroishi Castle Joya no Kane (New Year's Eve Bell Ringing Gathering)

About this event

An event held from New Year's Eve into New Year's Day where you can ring the Joya no Kane (New Year's Eve bell) yourself at the Belfry within the main bailey (Honmaru) of Shiroishi Castle. It takes place from 23:30 on Thursday, December 31, 2026 to 1:00 on Friday, January 1, 2027. Because crowding is expected on the day, numbered entry tickets will be distributed in order of arrival. You can enjoy a special experience greeting the new year in a historic castle. Shiroishi Castle was the stronghold of Katakura Kojuro, a senior retainer of the Date clan, and is a rare castle that was permitted to remain standing during the Edo period as an exception to the One Country, One Castle Order. The keep (Oyagura) was reconstructed in wood in 1995 (Heisei 7). In this event, unlike ringing a bell at a temple, you can strike the bell at the Belfry inside the castle's main bailey. As it is limited to 108 strikes, lining up early is recommended for years when large crowds are anticipated. With hours set from a 23:30 start until 1:00 on New Year's Day and convenient access with a 10-minute walk from Shiroishi Station, it is also possible to arrive by train and transition smoothly into Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the year). Because late night on New Year's Eve in Miyagi is deep winter and the main bailey is located on elevated ground where the wind passes through, sufficient cold-weather measures are essential. During the daytime, seasonal events are also held at the Shiroishi Castle Museum, allowing you to enjoy strolling through the castle town during the day before attending the nighttime event.

Venue

Belfry (Shoro)

1-16 Masuokacho, Shiroishi, Miyagi 989-0251