Niiname-no-Matsuri facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Niiname-no-Matsuri |
|
|---|---|
| Observed by | Japan |
| Type | Religious |
| Significance | harvest ritual |
| Date | November 23 |
| Next time | 23 November 2025 |
| Related to | Labor Thanksgiving Day |
The Niiname-sai (新嘗祭), also called Shinjō-sai or Niiname-no-Matsuri, is an important Japanese harvest ritual. It is a special ceremony where people thank the gods for a good harvest. They also pray for plenty of food in the coming year.
This ritual is led by the Emperor of Japan. He thanks the Shinto gods for a successful year. Shinto is the traditional religion of Japan. The Emperor also asks for a good harvest in the new year. The ceremony happens at the Imperial Palace and at large Shinto shrines.
When a new emperor takes the throne, his first Niiname-sai is extra special. It is called the Daijō-sai (大嘗祭). This big ceremony is part of his enthronement.
Long ago, the date of the Niiname-sai changed each year. It was held on a specific day in the old Japanese lunar calendar. But during the Meiji period, the date was set to November 23. This date later became a national holiday called Labor Thanksgiving Day. This happened after World War II.
What is the Niiname-sai Ceremony?
The Niiname-sai is a very old Shinto ritual. It is a way to give thanks for the crops grown in the past year. It also includes prayers for good harvests in the future.
During the ceremony, the Emperor of Japan thanks the gods of heaven and earth. These gods are called Amatsukami and Kunitsukami. The main ceremonies take place at the Imperial Palace. Other important shrines like Ise Grand Shrine and Izumo Shrine also hold parts of the ritual.
When is Niiname-sai Celebrated?
In the past, the date for Niiname-sai was not fixed. It was held on the last "Day of the Rabbit" in the eleventh month. This was based on the old lunar calendar.
Since the Meiji era, the date has been fixed. It is now always held on November 23. This date is also a modern public holiday in Japan. It is known as Labor Thanksgiving Day, which started in 1948. The name of this ritual is often linked to the season of winter.
Different Names for the Festival
The most common name for this festival is Niiname-sai. However, the same Japanese characters can also be read as Jinshō-sai or Niiname-no-Matsuri. The word Niiname itself can be pronounced in several ways. These include Niinae, Niinai, Niwanai, Niwanami, or Nyūnami.
When a new emperor comes to power, his first Niiname-sai has a special name. It is called the Daijō-sai. This can also be read as Ōname-Matsuri or Ōnie-no-Matsuri.
