Meiji Jingu Spring Grand Festival

The Meiji Jingu Spring Grand Festival (Haru-no-Taisai) is held annually from April 29 to May 3. This event honors the spirits of Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken through a series of prestigious traditional performances. In the shrine’s inner forest setting, visitors can witness Bugaku (ancient court dances), classical Noh and Kyogen theater, and Sankyo (traditional music). The schedule also features demonstrations of Kobudo martial arts and elegant Ikebana displays. These sacred ceremonies offer a rare opportunity to observe Japan’s highest forms of historical art in a serene, forested sanctuary.

The festival’s peak occurs on May 3 with the “Grand Ceremony,” which involves formal ritual offerings by Shinto priests. All performances take place on a dedicated stage in the shrine’s inner precinct and are free for the public to view, though seating is limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Because the shrine grounds are expansive, visitors should allow at least 15 minutes to walk from Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line) or Meiji-jingumae Station to the performance area. Additionally, while photography is generally permitted from a distance, spectators are expected to maintain silence and respect the sacred nature of the ongoing rituals.