The Hinode Matsuri, or Sunrise Festival, at Musashi-Mitake-jinja Shrine is a deeply traditional and spiritually significant event, held annually on May 8th. Its origins trace back to a Buddhist ceremony by mountain priests upon reaching the summit, initially held at sunrise on February 8th of Japan’s old lunisolar calendar. This ritual, marking the connection between the spiritual and natural worlds, has evolved into the festival we see today.
The festivities begin on the evening of May 7th with a solemn procession, highlighting the intertwining of Shinto practices and the natural beauty of the mountain. This event, enhanced by the ethereal sounds of gagaku and the soft glow of lamps, culminates at the sacred palanquin’s location, symbolizing the descent of deities.
The main festival on May 8th starts from the plaza in front of the cable car station at the mountain’s summit and makes its way through Mitake Village.
Sunrise Festival Offering Fees
Over 10,000 yen: Free cable car ticket, sacred talisman, Sunrise Festival amulet, offerings, sacred sake, entry to the shrine hall, and participation in the Kagura dance.
5,000 yen: Sacred talisman, Sunrise Festival amulet, offerings, entry to the shrine hall, and participation in the Kagura dance.
3,000 yen: Sacred talisman, Sunrise Festival amulet, offerings.
Schedule
May 7
20:00 Festival at the main shrine
20:30 Divine favor
21:00 Transfer to the temporary shrine
May 8
09:45 Departure from the Mitake Plain
10:00 Procession
11:50 Three circuits in front of the main shrine
12:00 Return
