copyright2001 Jingu Administration Office(c)jingu-shicho
(Enlarged photo)

Japanese festivals are joyful events, where mikoshi and dashi, vehicles to carry the kami, pass through the community. Many yatai (outdoor stalls) are set up and offer food and souvenirs to the worshipers. The annual cycle of ceremonies at the Jingu, however, is unique in being very simple and solemn, where kami and people value to be together. There are two categories of ceremonies; the Koreisai and the Rinjisai, or annual ceremonies and special ceremonies. The koreisai are held every year at definite dates and places. The rinjisai are held specially when something important happens in the nation or in the Imperial Family. Ceremonies of the annual cycle are held 1600 times a year. An example of these ceremonies are the ceremonies for Amaterasu Omikami. They were originally conducted in the Imperial Palace by the Emperor himself during the period from the reign of Emperor Jinmu through that of Emperor Sujin. Therefore, the significance of these ceremonies lies in the Emperor's worshiping Amaterasu Omikami, although the ceremonies are now performed at the Jingu. The Emperor directs prayer to Amaterasu Omikami for national prosperity and the Japanese people's happiness as well as for peace in the world. In ancient times, Unmarried Princesses served Amaterasu Omikami at Ise on behalf of the Emperor. This custom lives on today in the fact that the Saishu, the most sacred priestess serving Amaterasu Omikami, is to be female member of the Imperial Family. These annual ceremonies are important because they offer fervent prayer to Amaterasu Omikami, asking her for blessings to achieve the Emperor's longevity and peace for Japan and the world. They are performed by the Saishu and other Shinto priests including the Daiguji, the supreme priest, on behalf of the Emperor.