Chiba Shrine Chibajinja

The only multi-story shrine in Japan with an upper and lower worship hall

The grounds of the shrine bustling with worshippers during the New Year's visit

The first shrine visit of the New Year, which begins with the beating of a welcoming drum at midnight on New Year's Day, sees over 65 visitors over the first three days of the year. Various prayers for the new year are held alternately in the upper and lower worship halls.

The tower-gate-style branch shrine "Sonseiden"

The central Fukutokuden is where prayers are made for various directions, parts of the body, and various wishes, while the east and west Nittenro and Gettenro receive the power of the sun and moon.

The seven-day prayer festival "Myoken Festival"

This festival of prayers has been held without interruption since its first event in 1127. On August 16th and 22nd, a large portable shrine parades through the city, turning the whole town into a festival-like scene, a typical summer event.