Shinjuku’s divine summer festival

Basic Information

Discover the vibrant energy of Shinjuku’s annual summer festival, held at the historic Kumano Shrine.

• Address: 2-11-2 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
• Phone Number: 03-3343-5521
• Access: 5-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station’s West Exit, or 4-minute walk from Toei Oedo Line’s Nishi-Shinjuku-gochome Station’s A1 Exit
• Festival Days: September 16th (Mon) and 17th (Tue), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Kumano Shrine’s annual summer festival, featuring a diverse range of events and attractions.

Mikoshi Procession

Witness the grandeur of the mikoshi procession, where portable shrines adorned with intricate carvings and colorful tapestries are paraded through the streets. These sacred palanquins are believed to carry the spirits of the enshrined deities, and participants enthusiastically hoist and sway them to the rhythm of traditional music.

Kagura Performance

Be captivated by the enchanting kagura performance, a traditional Shinto ritual dance. Performers clad in elaborate costumes enact ancient tales and legends, accompanied by the haunting melodies of flutes and drums. This sacred dance is believed to bring good fortune and purification to the community.

Bon Odori Dance

Join in the lively Bon Odori dance, a traditional Japanese folk dance performed during Obon, the festival of the dead. Dancers form circles and move gracefully to the rhythm of folk songs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of unity and remembrance.

Food Stalls

Indulge in a delectable array of Japanese street food at the festival’s food stalls. From savory grilled meats and aromatic noodles to refreshing shaved ice and sweet treats, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t miss the chance to sample local specialties and festival favorites.

Fireworks Display

As the festival reaches its climax, the night sky is illuminated by a dazzling fireworks display. Brilliant bursts of color and light dance and shimmer overhead, leaving spectators in awe and wonder. This spectacular show is a fitting finale to the Kumano Shrine summer festival.

Blessings and Deities

Discover the divine blessings and deities enshrined at Kumano Shrine, a sacred site revered for centuries.

• Kumano Gongen: The primary deity of Kumano Shrine, Kumano Gongen is a manifestation of the three deities Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Izanami-no-Mikoto. Worshipped as the god of marriage, childbirth, and safe travel, Kumano Gongen is believed to bestow blessings of harmony, fertility, and protection.
• Susanoo-no-Mikoto: Known as the god of the sea and storms, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is also associated with agriculture, industry, and martial arts. He is revered for his bravery and strength, and is believed to bring blessings of victory, success, and protection against evil.
• Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto: The creator deities of the Japanese islands, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto are revered as the ancestors of all kami (Shinto deities). They are believed to bestow blessings of fertility, prosperity, and harmony.

Origin and History

Explore the rich history and ancient origins of Kumano Shrine, a sacred site steeped in tradition.

• Ancient Origins: Kumano Shrine’s origins are shrouded in mystery, with its history dating back to ancient times. It is believed that the shrine was initially a place of worship for the indigenous Ainu people, who revered the sacred mountains and forests of the Kumano region.
• Establishment of the Shrine: In the 9th century, the shrine was formally established as a Shinto shrine dedicated to Kumano Gongen. During the Heian period (794-1185), the shrine gained prominence as a pilgrimage site, attracting devout worshippers from all over Japan.
• Imperial Patronage: Kumano Shrine received imperial patronage from successive emperors, who recognized its spiritual significance. In the 12th century, Emperor Go-Shirakawa visited the shrine and bestowed upon it the title of “Kumano Gongen Daijingu,” elevating its status as a major pilgrimage destination.
• Continued Significance: Throughout history, Kumano Shrine has remained a sacred site, revered by both Shinto and Buddhist worshippers. It has survived numerous wars, natural disasters, and societal changes, and continues to be a place of spiritual renewal and devotion.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Ensure a fulfilling and enriching experience at Kumano Shrine with these helpful tips and notes.

• Dress Code: As a sacred site, visitors are expected to dress respectfully when visiting Kumano Shrine. Avoid wearing revealing or casual clothing, and opt for modest attire that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Purification Ritual: Before entering the main shrine building, perform the temizu purification ritual. This involves washing your hands and mouth at the designated water basin to cleanse yourself before approaching the shrine.
• Offerings: It is customary to make offerings to the deities at Kumano Shrine. You can purchase ema (wooden plaques) or omikuji (paper fortunes) at the shrine office and write your prayers or wishes on them.
• Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful demeanor while visiting the shrine. Avoid loud talking, laughing, or engaging in disruptive behavior. Show reverence to the deities and other worshippers by maintaining a quiet and contemplative atmosphere.
• Photography: Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but it is important to be mindful of other visitors and avoid taking pictures that may disturb their worship. Refrain from using flash photography inside the main shrine building.

Parking Information

Plan your visit to Kumano Shrine with this essential parking information.

• On-Site Parking: Kumano Shrine offers limited on-site parking for visitors. The parking lot is located adjacent to the shrine and can accommodate a small number of vehicles. Parking fees may apply.
• Nearby Parking Facilities: If the on-site parking lot is full or unavailable, there are several nearby parking facilities within walking distance of the shrine. These facilities typically charge hourly or daily parking rates.
• Public Transportation: To avoid parking concerns, consider using public transportation to reach Kumano Shrine. The shrine is easily accessible by train and bus, with several stations and bus stops located within a short walk.

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