The Kansai region is home to countless historic shrines and temples offering blessings for business prosperity, good relationships, and academic success. This article introduces the Top 15 recommended Hatsumode (First Shrine/Temple Visit of the New Year) spots across Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hyogo, complete with detailed tips on specific crowd avoidance times, transportation, and unique local charms.
Start your 2026 in Japan by experiencing Hatsumode, one of the most significant and vibrant cultural events of the year, at the region’s best power spots!
Contents
1. 🚨 Essential Guide: Hatsumode Strategy & Crowd Avoidance
Major shrines in Kansai (like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Sumiyoshi Taisha) experience extreme congestion from New Year’s Eve through the first three days of January (Sanganichi). Here is a strategy for a more comfortable visit.
⛩️ Hatsumode Strategy & Details
| Strategy | Details and Comfort Level |
| Shift Your Visit Date | To avoid peak crowds, January 4th or later is best. If you want the atmosphere, aim for the 2nd or 3rd. |
| Time Dispersal | Target early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM) or later in the evening (after 4:00 PM). Late-night worship on New Year’s Eve (midnight) is often slightly less crowded than midday. |
| Rely on Public Transport | Strict traffic regulations are imposed near many shrines. Avoid using private cars or taxis; use trains and buses. |
| Enjoy Local Food Stalls (Yatai) | Spots like Fushimi Inari and Ikuta Shrine feature numerous food stalls, offering a lively post-worship experience. |
2. Top 15 Hatsumode Spots in Kansai
We introduce recommended spots across Kansai, evaluated based on accessibility, visitor count, and blessings (Gori-yaku).
👑 【Super Popular】Kansai’s Two Giants: Ultimate Power Spots
1. Fushimi Inari Taisha | Main Shrine of Business Prosperity & Thousand Torii (Kyoto)
The head shrine for business prosperity and family safety, attracting over 2.5 million visitors during the first three days—one of the highest counts in Japan. The red Thousand Torii gates (Senbon Torii) are a globally famous photo spot.
- ・Unique Charm: The approach to the shrine is lined with food stalls (Yatai) where you can enjoy local New Year’s cuisine, such as Inari Sushi and Kushikatsu.
- ・Crowd Tip: Extreme congestion is expected, particularly from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on New Year’s Day, where lines can exceed one hour. For a smoother visit, aim for late night on Jan 1st (2:00 AM – 5:00 AM) or Jan 4th onward.
Name：Fushimi Inari Taisha
Location：68, Fukakusa Yabunochicho, Kyoto Shi Fushimi Ku, Kyoto Fu
Access：Immediately outside JR Nara Line Inari Station
Estimated Hours：Dec 31st 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM Jan 1st Open all day Jan 2nd & 3rd 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Official Web：https://inari.jp/
Official SNS ：https://www.instagram.com/fushimiinaritaisha_official/
2. Sumiyoshi Taisha | Osaka’s Strongest Power Spot, “Sumiyossan” (Osaka)
Known locally as “Sumiyossan,” this is Osaka’s most powerful spot, famous for blessings in business prosperity, match-making, and family safety. It draws huge crowds during Sanganichi.
- ・Unique Charm: The iconic Sorihashi (Taiko Bridge) within the grounds is a powerful spot said to purify you just by crossing it.
- ・Crowd Tip: Peak hours are 11:00 PM on New Year’s Eve to 3:00 AM on Jan 1st and 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Jan 1st. A comparatively quieter time on New Year’s Day is 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM.
Name：Sumiyoshi Taisha
Location：2-9-89, Sumiyoshi, Osaka Shi Sumiyoshi Ku, Osaka Fu
Access：Nankai Main Line Sumiyoshi Taisha Station, or Hankai Tramway Sumiyoshi Torii-mae Station
Estimated Hours：Dec 31st From 10:00 PM Jan 1st Until 8:00 PM Jan 2nd & 3rd 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Official Web：https://www.sumiyoshitaisha.net/en/
Official SNS：https://www.instagram.com/sumiyoshitaisha_shrine/
🎓 【By Blessing】Spots for Academics, Matchmaking, and Ward Off Evil
3. Osaka Tenmangu | Popular Shrine for the God of Learning (Osaka)
Dedicated to Sugawara Michizane, the revered God of Learning. It is famous for granting blessings for academic success and passing entrance exams, making it highly popular with students and their families.
- ・Unique Charm: They offer special amulets like the Gokaku-mamori (Passing Charm) for test-takers. It offers a solemn atmosphere despite its proximity to the city center.
- ・Crowd Tip: January 3rd tends to be the peak day as students flock for the final days of Sanganichi. For a smoother visit, aim for the morning or evening of January 2nd.
Name: Osaka Tenmangu
Location: 2-1-8, Tenjimbashi, Osaka Shi Kita Ku, Osaka Fu
Access: JR Tozai Line Osaka Tenmangu Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Jan 1st 12:00 AM – 8:00 PM Jan 2nd & 3rd 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Official Web: https://osakatemmangu.or.jp/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/osakatemmangu.official/
4. Heian Jingu Shrine | Grand Vermilion Gate for Good Fortune and Ward Off Evil (Kyoto)
Built to commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto. It features magnificent vermilion architecture and vast gardens. Nearly 400,000 visitors seek blessings for good fortune, warding off evil (yakuyoke), and business prosperity.
- Unique Charm: Warm Amazake (sweet sake) is often served on the grounds, a welcome treat during the cold winter visit.
- Crowd Tip: While crowded all day on Jan 1st, the shrine is relatively smooth during the early morning hours (6:00 AM – 7:00 AM) on Jan 2nd and later. The time just before closing (6:00 PM) is also a good option.
Name: Heian Jingu Shrine
Location: 97, Okazaki Nishitennocho, Kyoto Shi Sakyo Ku, Kyoto Fu
Access: Tozai Subway Line Higashiyama Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st Open all night Jan 1st Until 7:00 PM Jan 2nd & 3rd 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Official HP: https://www.heianjingu.or.jp/english/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/heianjingu_official/
5. Ikuta Shrine | “Ikuta-san for Matchmaking” & Kobe Gourmet (Hyogo)
Affectionately known as “Ikuta-san,” this shrine is famous for romantic fulfillment, matchmaking, and safe childbirth. It is especially popular with couples and young women.
- Unique Charm: Food stalls on the approach offer local Kobe specialties like Kobe Takoyaki and Bokkake Yakisoba, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine after worship.
- Crowd Tip: Due to its location near Sannomiya Station, it gets heavily crowded on New Year’s Day morning. If you want to avoid the rush, visit during the early hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) on January 2nd.
Name: Ikuta Shrine
Location: 1-2-1, Shimoyamatedori, Kobe Shi Chuo Ku, Hyogo Ken
Access: JR/Hankyu/Hanshin Sannomiya Station Estimated Hours: Jan 1st 12:00 AM – 10:45 PM Jan 2nd & 3rd 7:00 AM – 9:45 PM
Official HP: https://ikutajinja.or.jp/
Official SNS : https://www.instagram.com/ikuta_jinja/
6. Tsuyu Tenjinsha Shrine | “Ohatsu Tenjin” Sanctuary of Matchmaking (Osaka)
Known as “Ohatsu Tenjin,” it is Osaka’s sanctuary for matchmaking, famous as the setting for the famous love suicide story by Chikamatsu Monzaemon.
- Unique Charm: Features a “Lover’s Sanctuary” monument and you can receive matching couple’s amulets. Warm ginger-flavored Amazake is often served on New Year’s Day.
- Crowd Tip: Being close to Umeda, crowds remain steady even after January 4th (when people return to work). If avoiding Sanganichi, aim for a weekday evening (6:00 PM – 8:00 PM).
Name: Tsuyu Tenjinsha Shrine (Ohatsu Tenjin)
Location: 2-5-4, Sonezaki, Osaka Shi Kita Ku, Osaka Fu
Access: JR Osaka Station, Subway Higashi-Umeda Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st / Jan 1st Until 11:00 PM Jan 2nd onward 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Official HP: https://tuyutenjin.com/
7. Tamaki Shrine | Kansai’s Foremost Power Spot for Evil Exorcism (Nara)
A World Heritage site located near the summit of Mt. Tamaki (1,000m) in the Kii Mountain Range. It is one of the strongest power spots in Kansai.
- Unique Charm: Known particularly for blessings in warding off evil/demons (Akuma Taisan), and special protective amulets can be received. Its remote location offers a profoundly solemn atmosphere.
- Crowd Tip: Due to its remote location, it doesn’t experience the urban rush. However, parking is limited, so arriving in the morning (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) is recommended.
Name: Tamaki Shrine
Location: 1-1, Tamaigawa, Yoshino Gun Totsukawa Mura, Nara Ken
Access: Bus from JR Shingu Station (check schedule due to limited services)
Estimated Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Official HP: https://tamakijinja.or.jp/
🏞️ 【Hidden Gems & World Heritage】Spots for a Peaceful Visit
8. Shimogamo Shrine | World Heritage Site: A Less Crowded Alternative (Kyoto)
A World Heritage Site and one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto. It is a relatively less crowded alternative to other major spots, allowing for a calmer visit.
- Unique Charm: Strong for matchmaking and safe childbirth. The “lace omamori” (amulet) is very popular. It is also famous as the birthplace of Mitarashi Dango (sweet dumplings).
- Crowd Tip: While calmer than others, it still gets busy around noon on January 1st. The morning hours on January 2nd and later are the sweet spot.
Name: Shimogamo Shrine
Location: 59, Shimogamo Izumigawacho, Kyoto Shi Sakyo Ku, Kyoto Fu
Access: Keihan Electric Railway Demachiyanagi Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st Until 5:00 PM Jan 1st From 12:00 AM Jan 2nd & 3rd From 6:30 AM
Official HP: https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/en
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/kamomioyajinja/
9. Todai-ji Temple | Majestic New Year with the Great Buddha Hall (Nara)
A World Heritage Site housing the Great Buddha Hall, the world’s largest wooden building. During Hatsumode, the main doors of the Hall are open, offering a solemn welcome to the New Year.
- Unique Charm: Food stalls are set up around the Kagami-ike pond, and the Nara Park deer add to the festive atmosphere.
- Crowd Tip: Visitors concentrate heavily on New Year’s Day morning, but the large hall helps disperse the crowds. The afternoon of January 2nd or 3rd is typically quieter.
Name: Todai-ji Temple
Location: 406-1 Zoshicho, Nara City, Nara
Access: Approx. 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st 7:30 AM – Jan 1st 12:00 AM – 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Official HP: https://www.todaiji.or.jp/en/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/todaiji.official/
10. Tanzan Shrine | Lit-up Pagoda and Ward Off Evil (Nara)
Associated with the Taika Reform (7th century). It features the world’s only existing wooden thirteen-story pagoda, creating a unique landscape.
- Unique Charm: The grounds are illuminated from sunset until dawn, offering a magical atmosphere for worship. Entry is free from 5:00 PM on Dec 31st until 8:30 AM on Jan 1st.
- Crowd Tip: Being in a mountainous area, the congestion is less severe than in major cities. All-night worship on New Year’s Eve (midnight to dawn) is an especially quiet and solemn time to visit.
Name: Tanzan Shrine
Location: 319, Tonomine, Sakurai Shi, Nara Ken
Access: Bus from JR/Kintetsu Sakurai Station
Estimated Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Open all night on Jan 1st)
Official HP: https://www.tanzan.or.jp/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/tanzanjinja/
11. Kiyomizu-dera Temple | Iconic View and New Year’s Sunrise (Kyoto)
A World Heritage Site. While crowded, witnessing the New Year’s sunrise from the famous Kiyomizu Stage is an unforgettable experience.
- Unique Charm: Visit the Otowa Waterfall to drink the water for longevity, academic success, or match-making to make your New Year’s wish.
- Crowd Tip: The peak crowd is concentrated around the stage during sunrise hours (approx. 6:30 AM – 8:00 AM). If avoiding the crowds is the priority, aim for the morning of January 2nd or 3rd (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM).
Name: Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Location: 1-294, Kiyomizu, Kyoto Shi Higashiyama Ku, Kyoto Fu
Access: Keihan Electric Railway Kiyomizu-Gojo Station Estimated Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Regular Hours)
Official HP: https://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/feel_kiyomizudera/
12. Hirota Shrine | Guardian Deity of the Hanshin Tigers (Hyogo)
Known locally as “Hirota-san,” this shrine offers blessings for victory and good fortune. It is famous for being the shrine where the professional baseball team, the Hanshin Tigers, prays before their season.
- Unique Charm: The Kobano Mitsubatsutsuji (azalea) on the grounds is a Hyogo Prefectural natural monument, blooming beautifully in early spring.
- Crowd Tip: Being in a residential area, congestion is concentrated on New Year’s Day morning (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM). The early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) on January 2nd or later is quieter.
Name: Hirota Shrine
Location: 7-7, Taishacho, Nishinomiya Shi, Hyogo Ken
Access: Hankyu Koyo Line Kurakuenguchi Station, or bus from Nishinomiya Kitaguchi Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st Open all night Jan 1st 12:00 AM – 8:00 PM Jan 2nd & 3rd 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Official HP: https://hirotahonsya.or.jp/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/hirotahonsya/
13. Onokoro-jima Shrine | One of Japan’s Three Great Torii, Safe Childbirth & Matchmaking (Hyogo)
The shrine is dedicated to Onokoro-jima, the island said to be created in the Japanese creation myth. It grants blessings for safe childbirth and matchmaking.
- Unique Charm: The massive Torii gate, 21.7 meters high, is counted as one of Japan’s Three Great Torii, offering a powerful sight.
- Crowd Tip: New Year’s Day morning is the busiest time, but as it is located in the south of Awaji Island, the congestion is not as intense as in major urban shrines.
Name: Onokoro-jima Shrine
Location: 415, Enami Shimohada, Minamiawaji Shi, Hyogo Ken
Access: Bus from JR Sumoto Station or Fukura Port Estimated Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open all day on Jan 1st)
Official HP: https://www.freedom.ne.jp/onokoro/
14. Kashihara Jingu Shrine | Grand Shrine of the First Emperor (Nara)
Located on the land where Japan’s first Emperor, Jinmu, is said to have ascended the throne. It is a historical shrine granting blessings for national peace and prosperity.
- Unique Charm: The grounds are vast and surrounded by beautiful forests. Bonfires (Kagaribi) are lit from New Year’s Eve into New Year’s Day, creating a majestic atmosphere.
- Crowd Tip: Crowds build up on New Year’s Day morning, but the long visiting hours help disperse them. The afternoon of January 3rd is usually a quieter time to visit.
Name: Kashihara Jingu Shrine
Location: 934 Kumemachi, Kashihara City, Nara
Access: Kintetsu Kashiharajingu-mae Station
Estimated Hours: Dec 31st 6:30 AM – Jan 1st 8:00 PM Jan 2nd & 3rd 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Official HP: https://kashiharajingu.or.jp/
15. Nishinomiya Shrine | Main Shrine of “Ebisu” for Business Prosperity (Hyogo)
The head shrine for all Ebisu Shrines across Japan. Known affectionately as “Ebessan,” it primarily grants blessings for business prosperity. It is also famous for the Toka Ebisu festival in mid-January.
- Unique Charm: It becomes lively on New Year’s Eve. New Year’s Day is famous as the starting point for the annual “Lucky Man” race.
- Crowd Tip: Hatsumode is less crowded than the Toka Ebisu festival (Jan 9th–11th), but it is busy all day on New Year’s Day. It is best to avoid January 10th, when the “Lucky Man” race takes place.
Name: Nishinomiya Shrine
Location: 1-17, Shakecho, Nishinomiya Shi, Hyogo Ken
Access: Hanshin Nishinomiya Station Estimated Hours: Dec 31st 6:00 AM – Open all night Jan 1st Open all night – 7:00 PM Jan 2nd 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Official HP: https://nishinomiya-ebisu.com/
Official SNS: https://www.instagram.com/nishinomiya_ebisu_official/
3. Choose Your Spot: Hatsumode by Prefecture and Purpose
If you are unsure which prefecture to visit, select based on your goals for the New Year.
⛩️ Kansai 4 Prefecture Summary (How to Choose)
| Prefecture | Characteristics & Recommended For | Main Blessings (Gori-yaku) |
| Kyoto | Those who prioritize World Heritage sites and historical scenery. Crowd avoidance strategy is essential. | Business Prosperity (Fushimi Inari), Good Fortune/Warding off Evil (Heian Jingu), Academics, Matchmaking. |
| Osaka | Those seeking urban access and powerful blessings. Convenient access is a key factor. | Business Prosperity (Sumiyoshi Taisha), Academic Success (Osaka Tenmangu), Matchmaking (Tsuyu Tenjinsha). |
| Nara | Those who seek solemn atmosphere and natural power. Experiencing the majesty of the Great Buddha. | Evil Exorcism (Tamaki Shrine), Family Safety, National Prosperity (Kashihara Jingu). |
| Hyogo | Those who want to enjoy unique blessings and local gourmet food. Easy access to the Kobe area. | Romantic Fulfillment (Ikuta Shrine), Victory (Hirota Shrine), Safe Childbirth (Onokoro-jima), Business Prosperity (Nishinomiya). |
4. Start Your Year Right at a Kansai Hatsumode Spot
This article introduced 15 popular Hatsumode spots spanning Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hyogo.
To avoid the heaviest crowds during the first three days of the year, we recommend targeting the early morning or evening hours or opting for a less crowded spot like Shimogamo Shrine.
Use this guide to choose the perfect power spot and start your 2026 with great luck!
この記事へのコメントはありません。