Ise Grand Shrine Shikinen Sengu
ReligiousKansai(Mie)
Annual eventDates
2026-10-15 — 2026-10-17
Venue
Ise Grand Shrine (Naiku & Geku)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowdedThe ritual rebuilding of Ise Grand Shrine every 20 years.
The Shikinen Sengu is the ceremonial rebuilding of Ise Grand Shrine every 20 years, with the next full transfer scheduled for 2033. Annual preparatory ceremonies (Kannamesai) take place each October, offering the first rice harvest to Amaterasu Omikami. These solemn rites maintain the living tradition of Japan's most sacred Shinto site.
Highlights
Kannamesai harvest offering ceremony at Japan's holiest shrine; Solemn Shinto rituals dating back over 1,500 years; Sacred atmosphere of the Naiku inner shrine surrounded by ancient forests
Access
Kintetsu or JR to Iseshi Station. Geku (Outer Shrine) is 5 min walk from the station. Naiku (Inner Shrine) is accessible by bus from Iseshi Station or Geku (approx. 15 min).
Tips for Visitors
The main ceremonies are not open to the general public, but visitors can experience the sacred atmosphere during the festival period. Visit Geku first, then Naiku, following traditional pilgrimage order. Okage Yokocho street near Naiku offers excellent local food.