Itsukushima Kangen-sai
ReligiousChugoku(Hiroshima)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Moderate crowd
Photos
Elegant court music festival on the sea at Itsukushima Shrine.
Kangen-sai is Miyajima's grandest Shinto ceremony and one of Japan's three great boat festivals. Elegant court music (gagaku) and dance are performed aboard ornately decorated boats that glide across the waters around the iconic floating torii gate. The festival dates back to the Heian period and is tied to the lunar calendar (6th month, 17th day).
At a Glance
- Type
- Religious
- Dates
- 2026-08-05 – 2026-08-05
- Venue
- Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima
- Status
- Scheduled
- Crowd Level
- Moderate crowd
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Itsukushima Kangen-sai take place?
Itsukushima Kangen-sai takes place from 2026-08-05 to 2026-08-05.
Where is Itsukushima Kangen-sai held?
Itsukushima Kangen-sai is held at Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima in Hiroshima, Japan.
Where can I confirm the official status of Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.itsukushimajinja.jp/event.html.
What is the current status of Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
The current listing status is scheduled. Last checked: 2026-08-04.
Is Itsukushima Kangen-sai free to attend?
Yes, Itsukushima Kangen-sai is free to attend.
What is the admission fee for Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
The admission fee for Itsukushima Kangen-sai is ¥0.
How crowded is Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
The typical crowd level is moderate.
What are the highlights of Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
Gagaku court music performed on boats gliding past the floating torii gate at sunset; Beautifully decorated ceremonial boats illuminated by lanterns; Ancient Heian-era atmosphere on the sacred island of Miyajima
How do I get to Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
JR Miyajimaguchi Station, then JR Miyajima Ferry or Matsudai Kisen Ferry to Miyajima (approx. 10 min). From Hiroshima Station, take JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi (approx. 30 min).
What should I know before attending Itsukushima Kangen-sai?
The boat procession begins in the evening — best viewed from the shore near Itsukushima Shrine. The date follows the lunar calendar so check the exact date each year. The last ferry back to the mainland may be crowded; consider staying on Miyajima island.
Highlights
Gagaku court music performed on boats gliding past the floating torii gate at sunset; Beautifully decorated ceremonial boats illuminated by lanterns; Ancient Heian-era atmosphere on the sacred island of Miyajima
Access
JR Miyajimaguchi Station, then JR Miyajima Ferry or Matsudai Kisen Ferry to Miyajima (approx. 10 min). From Hiroshima Station, take JR Sanyo Line to Miyajimaguchi (approx. 30 min).
Tips for Visitors
The boat procession begins in the evening — best viewed from the shore near Itsukushima Shrine. The date follows the lunar calendar so check the exact date each year. The last ferry back to the mainland may be crowded; consider staying on Miyajima island.
Location
📍 Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima