Best Hatsumode in Kansai

5 Must-Visit Shrines and Temples for New Year

Easy Guide for First-Time Visitors to Japan

In Japan, the New Year is very special.
People do not only celebrate with parties.
They visit shrines and temples to pray for a good year.

This first visit of the year is called Hatsumode.

Kansai is one of the best places for Hatsumode.
It has a long history, famous shrines, beautiful temples, and warm local culture.

In this article, we introduce 5 very popular Hatsumode places in Kansai.
You can enjoy Japanese culture, atmosphere, and New Year spirit.

5 Popular Hatsumode Spots in Kansai

1. Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto)
2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kyoto)
3. Sumiyoshi Taisha (Osaka)
4. Kasuga Taisha (Nara)
5. Ikuta Shrine (Kobe)

Why Hatsumode in Kansai Is So Popular

Hatsumode in Kansai is more than just praying.

You can:

• walk through historic places
• feel calm and fresh air
• see local people’s New Year traditions
• take beautiful photos

You do not need special knowledge. You do not need perfect manners.

Just walk slowly, be polite, and enjoy the moment.

That is why many foreign visitors love Hatsumode in Kansai.

Fushimi Inari Taisha – Red Torii Gates and Good Luck for Business (Kyoto)

Walk Through the Famous Red Torii Gates

When you enter Fushimi Inari Taisha, you see many red gates.
They are called Torii.

Thousands of torii gates stand close together.
When you walk through them, it feels quiet and magical.

Many visitors say this is one of the most memorable places in Japan.

God of Business and Success

Fushimi Inari is famous for:

• business success
• good work luck
• prosperity

Many people come to pray for a good year at work.

Best Time to Visit

It is very crowded at noon on January 1st.
For a calm visit:

• early morning
• evening or night

Night time is also great for photos.

Omamori, Ema, and Food Stalls

You can buy:

• Omamori (good luck charms)
• Ema (wooden prayer boards)

There are also food stalls near the shrine.
Try warm drinks and snacks.

Kiyomizu-dera – Welcome the New Year at a World Heritage Temple (Kyoto)

Feel the New Year from the Famous Wooden Stage

Kiyomizu-dera has a large wooden stage.
From here, you can see Kyoto city.

In winter, the air is clean and quiet.
It is a perfect place to think about the new year.

Love and Study Luck

Many people visit Kiyomizu-dera to pray for:

• love
• good relationships
• success in study

Young travelers and students often come here.

Special New Year Atmosphere

During Hatsumode season, the temple feels very calm.
You can hear bells and prayers.

Time feels slow and peaceful.

Enjoy the Old Streets

After visiting, walk along:

• Kiyomizu-zaka
• Sannen-zaka

You can enjoy Japanese sweets, tea, and souvenirs.

Sumiyoshi Taisha – Osaka’s Oldest Shrine and Lively New Year

Unique Bridge and Shrine Style

Sumiyoshi Taisha has a special arched bridge.
It is very beautiful and different from other shrines.

Protection and Safety

This shrine is famous for:

• safety
• protection
• travel luck

Many local people come every year.

Feel Osaka’s Energy

Osaka people love festivals.
Hatsumode here is lively and fun.

You can hear laughter and friendly voices.

Food Stalls and Local Fun

There are many food stalls.
This is a great place to feel local New Year culture.

Kasuga Taisha – Quiet New Year with Deer in Nara

Sacred Forest and Calm Air

Just walking here makes you feel relaxed.

Kasuga Taisha is inside a deep forest.
The air feels clean and quiet.

Meet Nara’s Famous Deer

You can see deer near the shrine.
They walk freely and calmly.

This scene surprises many foreign visitors.

Traditional and Peaceful New Year

Kasuga Taisha is less noisy than big city shrines.
It is perfect if you want a calm start to the year.

Ikuta Shrine – Easy Hatsumode in the Heart of Kobe

Very Easy Access

Ikuta Shrine is near Kobe’s main area, Sannomiya.
You can visit while shopping or sightseeing.

Famous for Love and Relationships

This shrine is popular for:

• love
• good relationships

Many young people and couples visit.

Modern City and Tradition Together

You can enjoy:

• shrine visit
• city walk
• cafes and shops

All in one day.

Simple Hatsumode Manners (Easy Guide)

You do not need to worry. Just remember:

1. Bow once before the torii gate
2. Wash hands at the water place
3. Put a coin in the box
4. Pray quietly
5. Be respectful

Photos are OK, but be careful of others.

Easy Access to Each Hatsumode Spot

• Fushimi Inari Taisha: JR Inari Station, right in front
• Kiyomizu-dera: Bus from Kyoto Station + walk
• Sumiyoshi Taisha: Nankai Railway, Sumiyoshi Taisha Station
• Kasuga Taisha: Walk or bus from Kintetsu Nara Station
• Ikuta Shrine: 10-minute walk from Sannomiya Station