At the beginning of the year, the main hall of the shrine accepts formal New Year’s visits and prayers for protection against bad luck and for family safety (no prior reservations are required).
Formal visit to the main shrine
First earning:
［Formal visit to the shrine for the first time] From 5,000 yen per visit
［Prayers for national safety, family safety, protection from bad luck, success in entrance examinations, etc.] From 5,000 yen per prayer
［Group Prayer Pilgrimage (Business Connectivity, etc.)] From 20,000 yen per company
Reception Hours:
［New Year’s Day] 0:00 – 16:30
［8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. [2nd and 3rd].
［After the 4th] 8:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
In addition to lucky charms associated with the Chinese zodiac sign of the Chinese zodiac, the New Year’s limited edition gifts include many amulets distributed throughout the year, such as “Sakura-mamori,” “Negai-awaru-mamori” and “Gomamori” for physical health, which are typical of Yasukuni Shrine, a place famous for its cherry blossoms. In addition, for the winter season of 2024, a red seal with a lion’s head embroidered under the Yasukuni Shrine crest will be available.
On January 3 at 10:00 a.m., the Ogasawara Kyobo will perform a bow-hunting ceremony called “Shinshun Yumi-Hajime San-San-Ku Tezama-Shiki” in the traditional manner of the samurai class.
In addition, there will be an exhibition of ema (votive votive tablet) votive tablets from approximately 300 shrines throughout Japan and an exhibition of sake brands. In addition, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from New Year’s Day to the 4th, visitors will be served sake and warm, alcohol-free amazake (sweet sake) dedicated by sake breweries.
© Source travel watch