December 31, 2025 at 11:00 am
Event date:
January 1, 2026 at 1:30 am
Event end:

History

The Oji Inari-Jinja Shrine Fox Parade (王子狐の行列) is a unique Japanese New Year tradition held at Shozoku Inari-jinja Shrine in Tokyo. This centuries-old custom celebrates kitsune, or fox spirits, which are believed to be messengers of the Shinto deity Inari. The parade reflects Japan’s deep-rooted Shinto beliefs and folklore, combining religious ritual with festive pageantry.

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Fox parades like this one have been celebrated for generations, linking the spiritual significance of foxes with Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year. Participants dress as foxes in traditional attire, including kimonos and painted faces, while carrying out rituals that have been passed down through the years. The parade symbolizes purification, protection, and blessings for a prosperous new year.

Over time, the event has become both a cultural spectacle and a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. While deeply spiritual in origin, it has grown to incorporate community participation, pre-parade rituals, and ceremonial offerings, making it one of Tokyo’s most enchanting New Year events.

Overview

The Oji Inari-Jinja Shrine Fox Parade 2025-2026 takes place from late December 2025 to early January 2026, with the main parade occurring on midnight, January 1st, 2026. The procession starts at Shozoku Inari-jinja Shrine and makes its way to Oji Inari Shrine, covering a traditional route while participants perform rituals, chant prayers, and display their fox costumes.

Pre-parade activities, such as breaking of the sake barrel and ritual preparations, begin around 11:00 PM on December 31st. The parade itself typically reaches Oji Inari Shrine by 1:00–1:30 AM, where final blessings and prayers are offered. Spectators can enjoy the ceremonial procession, traditional attire, and unique cultural experience free of charge.

Highlights

Witness a traditional fox parade symbolizing protection and prosperity.
Participants dressed in fox costumes and kimonos, with painted faces.
Pre-parade rituals including the breaking of the sake barrel.
Scenic procession from Shozoku Inari Shrine to Oji Inari Shrine.
A unique blend of Shinto spirituality, folklore, and New Year celebration.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

Experience a rare and culturally rich New Year parade in Tokyo.
Free for spectators to witness the full procession.
Perfect for photography and capturing traditional Japanese customs.
Connect with Japan’s Shinto heritage and folklore.
Ideal for visitors seeking a quieter, spiritually meaningful New Year experience.

Even if you’re visiting Japan or already here, and need any type of help — from custom tours and experiences to transportation or ticket booking — just contact us using the Contact Us page on Jasumo.

Schedule

Date: Wednesday, December 31st, 2025 – Thursday, January 1st, 2026
Pre-Parade Rituals: Begin at 11:00 PM on December 31st
Parade Start: Midnight (0:00 AM) January 1st
End Time: 1:00–1:30 AM at Oji Inari Shrine

Pricing

Spectator Entry: Free
Parade Participation: Approx. ¥1,000 JPY (pre-registration required, kimono needed)
Fox Makeup: Approx. ¥500 JPY (optional for participants or spectators)

Location

Venue: Shozoku Inari-jinja Shrine, 2-30-14 Oji, Tokyo, Japan

How to Get There:

By Train: Accessible via Oji Station on the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line and Tokyo Metro Namboku Line.
By Foot: The shrines are within walking distance from Oji Station, suitable for nighttime access.

Accommodation Options

Visitors can stay in nearby Tokyo hotels or guesthouses for convenience. Central Tokyo offers a variety of accommodations ranging from ¥8,000 to ¥25,000 per night, depending on hotel class. Early booking is recommended during New Year’s Eve.

FAQs

What is the Oji Inari-Jinja Fox Parade?

A traditional Japanese New Year parade where participants dress as foxes, celebrating Shinto beliefs and Hatsumode.

When does the parade start?

The main parade begins at midnight (0:00 AM) on January 1st, 2026, with pre-parade rituals starting around 11:00 PM.

Is there a fee to watch the parade?

No, spectator entry is free.

Can visitors participate in the parade?

Yes, pre-registered participants can join for about ¥1,000 JPY, provided they wear a kimono and/or fox costume.

Is there fox makeup available?

Yes, optional fox makeup services are offered near the starting shrine for approximately ¥500 JPY.

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