宮内庁.pdf

The Daijosai festival is a traditional Japanese ritual that has been passed down for centuries, centered on rice cultivation and the country's social structure. It is a ceremony where the Emperor, after his accession, offers newly harvested rice to his ancestors and the gods, and also partakes of it himself, expressing gratitude for peace and abundant harvests, and praying for the nation and its people. The festival is held only once during an Emperor's reign, and its history dates back to the 7th century. The main ceremony, known as the Daijosai Palace Ritual, takes place over two days, with the Emperor offering rice and sake to his ancestors and the gods, and then partaking of them himself. The festival also includes a banquet, known as the Daijosai Feast, where the Emperor and his guests enjoy food and drink made from the newly harvested rice, and celebrate the abundant harvest.