Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Hatsumode & New Year Rituals

About this event

Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the new year) and New Year rituals celebrating the start of the new year are held at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu. From 5:00 AM early in the morning on New Year's Day, the Saitansai ritual is performed to celebrate the new year, pray for the prosperity of the Imperial Household, the prosperity of the nation, the safety of parishioners and worshipers, world peace, and the divine protection of the Great Kami throughout the year. After the conclusion of Saitansai, the Kagurahajime-shiki ceremony begins at 7:00 AM at the Maiden stage, featuring the dance of eight maidens (Yaotome no Mai). On January 3, the Genshisai ritual is conducted to mark the beginning of the year, celebrating the origin of the Imperial Throne and praying at shrines nationwide for the prosperity of the Imperial Household and nation. Furthermore, on January 4, the Chona-hajime-shiki ceremony is held, which has traditionally been performed prior to important construction work since ancient times. It is said that when this shrine was founded, a ceremony was held under the name of "Zoei-koto-hajime," and today it is performed with the meaning of commencing construction work across all of Kamakura. On January 5, the Joma Shinji ritual is held, originating from the martial beginnings initiated by Minamoto no Yoritomo, in which evil spirits are dispelled using bows and arrows. These Shinto rituals are conducted in a solemn and sacred atmosphere fitting for the start of a new year, drawing crowds of worshippers. During the Hatsumode period, visitor numbers increase, so planning ahead to avoid congestion, preparing cold-weather gear, and scheduling rest breaks are recommended. At the shrine grounds' Shin'en Peony Garden, winter peonies are open to the public as usual starting on New Year's Day, allowing visitors to enjoy this quintessential New Year tradition.

Venue

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu

2-1-31 Yukinoshita, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-8588