Niiname-sai
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Imperial Palace (Kokyo)
Admission
¥0
Crowd Level
Low crowdKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Imperial Palace (Kokyo)
Admission
¥0
Crowd Level
Low crowdJapanese festivals (matsuri) are incredible cultural experiences, but they come with their own rules and customs. Learn the etiquette, what to wear, and how to fully enjoy a matsuri.
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Imperial harvest thanksgiving ritual held at the Imperial Palace.
Niiname-sai is one of the most important Shinto harvest thanksgiving ceremonies, held annually on November 23 at the Imperial Palace. The Emperor offers newly harvested rice and sake to the deities and partakes of them himself, giving thanks for the year's harvest. While the palace ceremony is private, many shrines across Japan hold public Niiname-sai rituals.
Niiname-sai takes place from 2026-11-23 to 2026-11-23.
Niiname-sai is held at Imperial Palace (Kokyo) in Tokyo, Japan.
The admission fee for Niiname-sai is ¥0.
The crowd level at Niiname-sai is typically low.
Yes, Niiname-sai is held annually.
Niiname-sai is a seasonal festival in Japan.
Highlights of Niiname-sai include: Ancient imperial harvest thanksgiving ceremony; National holiday (Labor Thanksgiving Day) with cultural significance; Public niiname-sai ceremonies at shrines nationwide.
Tips for Niiname-sai: The Imperial Palace ceremony is closed to public. Visit Meiji Jingu or other major shrines for public niiname-sai ceremonies. November 23 is a national holiday, so expect crowds at popular shrines..
Niiname-sai welcomes international visitors. It is a great way to experience Japanese culture.
Access information for Niiname-sai: 5-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) or 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station (JR).
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tips: The Imperial Palace ceremony is closed to public. Visit Meiji Jingu or other major shrines for public niiname-sai ceremonies. November 23 is a national holiday, so expect crowds at popular shrines..
Photography is generally welcome at Niiname-sai. Check specific rules at the venue.
Niiname-sai is a family-friendly festival that visitors of all ages can enjoy.
Festival food stalls (yatai) at Niiname-sai typically serve popular Japanese street food including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori. Some festivals feature regional specialties.
Yes, wearing a yukata (casual kimono) is very common and encouraged at Niiname-sai. Many visitors rent yukata nearby.
Parking can be limited during Niiname-sai. Public transportation is recommended. Check access details: 5-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) or 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station (JR).
Ancient imperial harvest thanksgiving ceremony; National holiday (Labor Thanksgiving Day) with cultural significance; Public niiname-sai ceremonies at shrines nationwide
5-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) or 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station (JR)
The Imperial Palace ceremony is closed to public. Visit Meiji Jingu or other major shrines for public niiname-sai ceremonies. November 23 is a national holiday, so expect crowds at popular shrines.
📍 Imperial Palace (Kokyo)