Major Events on the Atsuta Jingu Schedule

For the most up-to-date details, check Nagoya Convention & Visitors Bureau before you go.

You can find the latest updates on Chubu Centrair International Airport.

On January 3rd, the shrine hosts the Genshisai, which is a significant ritual dedicated to the imperial lineage. This event attracts many people who wish to see the traditional court music and dance performed on the grounds. You should check the Nagoya New Year shrine visits guide for more details on local customs.

The Hatsu-Ebisu festival takes place on the night of January 5th and is incredibly popular with local business owners. People flock to the shrine to buy lucky charms that ensure success and wealth for their various commercial ventures. The atmosphere during this night is vibrant and filled with the energy of thousands of excited festival participants.

Throughout the first week of January, the shrine remains a busy center for the traditional practice known as Hatsumode. You can find more information about the best shrines for Hatsumode in Nagoya 2026 to plan your route. Most ceremonies occur between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM during these specific early January dates.

Traditional Rituals and Ceremonies to Watch

Atsuta Jingu is famous for housing the Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, which is one of the Three Imperial Regalia of Japan. While the sword is never shown to the public, its presence makes every ceremony at the shrine feel powerful. Visitors can feel the deep history of Japan while watching the priests perform their rhythmic and ancient duties.

The Toshikoshi-no-o-harae is a purification ritual held on the afternoon of December 31st to cleanse the past year. This ceremony prepares the grounds and the people for the arrival of the new deities during the midnight hour. Participating in this event allows you to start your 2026 journey with a clean and refreshed spiritual state.

During the first few days of the year, you may see Bugaku, which is a type of traditional dance. These performances feature colorful masks and elegant movements that have remained unchanged for over a thousand years in Japan. Watching these dances provides a rare glimpse into the artistic heritage of the Nagoya region during the holidays.

• Witness the sunrise prayers on January 1st.
• Watch the traditional Bugaku dance performances.
• Observe the formal purification of the shrine priests.
• Join the crowds for the Hatsu-Ebisu night market.

Planning Your 2026 Visit to Atsuta Jingu

Visiting during the New Year requires careful planning because the shrine attracts over two million people in three days. The busiest times are usually from midnight on December 31st until the evening of January 3rd every year. If you prefer a quieter experience, try visiting very late at night or during the early morning hours.

While you are at the shrine, be sure to try some of the traditional New Year food to eat in Nagoya from the stalls. You will find many vendors selling hot snacks like yakisoba, takoyaki, and sweet amazake to keep you warm. These food stalls are a major part of the festive experience for families and young travelers alike.

Don't forget to purchase an omikuji, which is a random fortune written on a small piece of white paper. If you receive a bad fortune, you can tie it to a designated wire at the shrine grounds. This act is said to leave the bad luck behind so you can start your year with hope.

The weather in Nagoya during January is typically very cold and can sometimes reach freezing temperatures during the night. Wear thick layers and bring heat packs, known as kairo, to stay comfortable while waiting in the long lines. Knowing what is open in Nagoya during New Year will help you find nearby places to warm up.

Transportation and Access Tips for Visitors

Getting to Atsuta Jingu is very easy because it is located near several major train and subway station lines. The Meitetsu Line stops at Jingu-mae Station, which is only a short three-minute walk from the main gate. Alternatively, you can take the JR Tokaido Line to Atsuta Station for a slightly longer but pleasant walk.

During the New Year period, many trains operated by JR Central run on a special holiday schedule for commuters. Some lines may offer extended service throughout the night on New Year's Eve to accommodate the many shrine visitors. Always check the latest transit apps to ensure you do not miss the last train of the evening.

Parking near the shrine is extremely limited and many roads are closed to private vehicles during the peak days. Using public transportation is the most reliable way to reach the shrine without getting stuck in heavy traffic jams. According to the Japan National Tourism Organization, using local trains is the best way to travel during holidays.