Discover Tori No Ichi: Japan's Vibrant Rooster Festival for Prosperity

Tori No Ichi is a centuries-old, nationwide Japanese festival held in November on "Rooster Days" ("Tori No Hi") of the lunar calendar. Originating in the Edo period, it celebrates prosperity and abundance, evolving from a harvest thank-you into a major event for business owners and anyone seeking good fortune. Its central item is the kumade—an ornate rake believed to "rake in" wealth and luck for the coming year.

When Does it Happen?

The festival is held on Days of the Rooster (Tori no Hi) in November. These dates are determined by the 12-day Chinese Zodiac cycle, not the standard lunar phases. Because the cycle repeats every 12 days, the festival occurs two or three times each November.

The Schedule: The main festival runs for 24 hours, starting at the stroke of midnight (0:00).

The "Eve" Festival: Many shrines also hold a "Yoimiya" (Eve Festival) the night before, usually starting around dusk.

Note: When a year has three Rooster Days (a "San-no-Tori" year), it is traditionally said that the risk of fire is higher, so you may see more charms related to fire prevention. 2026 is expected to have only two.

Main Activities

• Kumade Shopping: Purchase and sometimes haggle for the symbolic, decorative lucky rakes. Many visitors ritually burn their old kumade to make room for new prosperity.
• Omikuji Fortunes: Draw traditional paper fortunes, often while monks chant blessings.
• Street Food: Indulge in a wide variety of Japanese festival foods like takoyaki and yakitori.
• Cultural Performances: Watch traditional kagura dances and other live shows.

Cultural Significance:

While the festival originated at and is mainly associated with Otori Shrines (dedicated to the eagle deity), it is now celebrated at various other shrines and temples across Japan. A blend of Shinto tradition and modern celebration, the event focuses on prayers for business booms, increased sales, and family luck. The ritual burning of the old kumade symbolizes gratitude for the past year and hope for the year ahead.

Where to Witness Tori No Ichi

While nationwide, the largest celebrations are in Tokyo:

• Otori Shrine & Chokoku-ji Temple (Asakusa): The grandest, most crowded, and "must-see" 24-hour version.
• Hanazono Shrine (Shinjuku): One of the "Big Three," lively with great nighttime lighting, but slightly less overwhelming than Asakusa.
• Okunitama Shrine (Fuchu): A calmer, more intimate celebration.

Tips

• Timing: Visit at night for the best atmosphere; arrive early in the evening (6-8 PM) to manage crowds.
• What to Bring: Bring cash (many vendors don't accept cards), dress warmly (November nights are cold), and wear comfortable shoes.
• Crowds: Expect massive crowds in Asakusa; choose quieter venues like Okunitama if needed.
• Experience: Take your time selecting your kumade, try the street food, and soak in the lantern-lit, celebratory atmosphere.