Mitama Festival

This is a festival held at Yasukuni Shrine every year from July 13th to 16th. Following an ancient Japanese tradition, it started in the Showa 22 (1947) after the end of World War II, and has a history of over 75 years. Now, it is a beloved feature of summer in Tokyo, attracting over 100,000 visitors each year.

Inside the shrine grounds, more than 30,000 lanterns, both large and small, donated by individuals and groups, and hanging lanterns called "Kakebonbori" with calligraphy by famous people from various fields, beautifully decorate the night sky. Every night, rituals are performed at the main shrine to comfort the spirits. The festival is filled with a lively mood day and night with various events such as Mikoshi carrying, Aomori Nebuta, Awa Odori, Edo art Kappore, wind orchestra parade, special flower offering exhibition, various performing arts and Bon dance.

Also, during the festival, there is a special event called "Yakan Chutei Sanpai" (1,000 yen per person for the tamagushi fee) where you can visit the inner garden, which is usually off-limits, and is the closest sacred area to the main shrine.