ABSTRACT

First Published in 1996. This volume contains the finest and most detailed descriptions of the Japanese enthronement ceremonies and imperial regalia available in the English language. Privately printed in 1928, it has never before been widely available. In an approach that combines history and anthropology, it presents meticulous description of the rituals, costumes, offerings and buildings in which the ceremonies - mostly enacted in private - are held.

chapter I|10 pages

THE IMPERIAL REGALIA

chapter II|12 pages

THE MIRROR

chapter III|10 pages

THE SWORD

chapter IV|22 pages

THE JEWELS

chapter V|20 pages

THE CEREMONIES IN OUTLINE

chapter VII|22 pages

PREPARATIONS FOR THE DAIJŌ SAl

chapter VIII|28 pages

THE DAIJŌ SAl: THE GREAT NEW FOOD FESTIVAL

chapter IX|6 pages

EPILOGUE: THE MEANING OF THE CEREMONIES