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Niinamesai (First Fruit Harvest)
The Emperor's sacred rice harvest ceremony — offering the first fruits to the kami.
November 23
Why It Matters
Niinamesai is one of the most sacred Shinto ceremonies — the Emperor personally offers newly harvested rice and sake to the kami of heaven and earth. One of the most ancient Japanese rituals, dating to at least the Kojiki.
How It Is Observed
The Emperor performs the ceremony at the Imperial Palace. At shrines nationwide, priests conduct harvest thanksgiving rituals offering newly harvested grains, sake, and seasonal vegetables.
Sacred Text
“With sincerity we offer these first fruits to the great kami of heaven and earth. May the harvest be bountiful.”
— Nihon Shoki ↗