Kyoto shrines host traditional religious festivals

Traditional religious festivals are being held at historic shrines in Kyoto.

At Daishogun Hachijinja, the Tenmon-sai festival is scheduled for October 17–18, 2026. The shrine, established during the founding of Heian-kyo to protect the city's northwest gate, features unique rituals including ‘Orochi no Oharae,’ where a long strip of mochi is stretched to represent a legendary serpent. The event also includes a major portable shrine procession with approximately 150 participants performing ‘Tsujimawashi’ and ‘Sashiage’ maneuvers at the Daishogun intersection.

Separately, Shiramine Shrine in Kamigyo Ward held its annual Sutoku Tenno-sai festival on September 21. The ceremony, dedicated to Emperor Sutoku—a deity associated with martial arts and ball games—included offerings of Gagaku music and traditional dance.