Niiname-sai
SeasonalKanto(Tokyo)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Imperial Palace (Kokyo)
Admission
¥0
Crowd Level
Low crowd
Photos
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.
At a Glance
- Type
- Seasonal
- Dates
- 2026-11-23 – 2026-11-23
- Venue
- Imperial Palace (Kokyo)
- Status
- Scheduled
- Crowd Level
- Low crowd
- Admission
- ¥0
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Niiname-sai take place?
Niiname-sai takes place from 2026-11-23 to 2026-11-23.
Where is Niiname-sai held?
Niiname-sai is held at Imperial Palace (Kokyo) in Tokyo, Japan.
Where can I confirm the official status of Niiname-sai?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.kunaicho.go.jp/.
What is the current status of Niiname-sai?
The current listing status is scheduled. Last checked: 2026-08-04.
What is the admission fee for Niiname-sai?
The admission fee for Niiname-sai is ¥0.
How crowded is Niiname-sai?
The typical crowd level is low.
What are the highlights of Niiname-sai?
Ancient imperial harvest thanksgiving ceremony; National holiday (Labor Thanksgiving Day) with cultural significance; Public niiname-sai ceremonies at shrines nationwide
How do I get to Niiname-sai?
5-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) or 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station (JR)
What should I know before attending 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.
Highlights
Ancient imperial harvest thanksgiving ceremony; National holiday (Labor Thanksgiving Day) with cultural significance; Public niiname-sai ceremonies at shrines nationwide
Access
5-minute walk from Nijubashimae Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line) or 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station (JR)
Tips for Visitors
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.
Location
📍 Imperial Palace (Kokyo)