Atago Shrine Hatsumode

About this event

Hatsumode at Atago Shrine, located in Minato Ward, Tokyo, is a traditional event celebrating the beginning of the new year. Atago Shrine was founded in the early Edo period by order of Tokugawa Ieyasu as a deity of fire prevention, and is situated on Mount Atago, the highest natural elevation within Tokyo's 23 wards. The main shrine hall sits at the top of the 86 steep steps known as the 'Stairs of Success' (Shusse no Kaidan), and climbing these steep steps is regarded as a symbol of pledging further advancement with New Year aspirations in heart. Prayed-for blessings include matters related to fire (fire prevention, disaster prevention), printing and computer industries, business prosperity, love, marriage, matchmaking, and good fortune for career advancement. Every year, it is bustling with many worshippers from New Year's Eve through New Year's Day, but because it becomes crowded from noon onward during the first three days of the New Year, visiting during early morning hours is said to be relatively uncrowded. The amulet counter reception hours are scheduled as usual, making it a special place for people wishing for good luck in the new year. While a few food stalls may be set up on the grounds, their numbers are limited. When visiting, bringing warm drinks and hand warmers as cold-weather measures and wearing comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Venue

Atago Shrine

1-5-3 Atago, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0002