Kumano Shrine: A Journey Through History and Tradition

Basic Information

Kumano Shrine is a historical shrine located in Jiyugaoka, Meguro Ward, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 1-24-12 Jiyugaoka, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-0035
• Phone Number: 03-3717-7720
• Access: A 3-minute walk from Exit 3 of Jiyugaoka Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line
• Festival Days: First Saturday and Sunday of September

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Kumano Shrine Festival is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. Here are some of the main events and attractions of the festival:

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where portable shrines are carried through the streets of Jiyugaoka. The mikoshi are elaborately decorated and carried by teams of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a lively and festive atmosphere.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling. During the Kumano Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held at the shrine’s main hall. These performances are a great way to learn about Japanese culture and history.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Kumano Shrine Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. There will also be plenty of drinks available, including beer, sake, and soft drinks.

Games and Activities

In addition to the main events, there will also be a variety of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals.

International Goodwill Mikoshi

One of the unique features of the Kumano Shrine Festival is the International Goodwill Mikoshi. This is a special mikoshi that is carried by foreign residents of Tokyo. The International Goodwill Mikoshi is a symbol of the diversity and inclusivity of the festival.

Blessings and Deities

Kumano Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Izanami-no-Mikoto, and Izumo-no-Okuni-no-Mikoto. These deities are associated with various aspects of life, including good fortune, health, and fertility. Visitors to the shrine often pray for blessings in these areas.

Origin and History

The origins of Kumano Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in the village of Yabata, but it was moved to its current location in Jiyugaoka in 1927. The shrine has been a popular place of worship for centuries, and it continues to attract many visitors today.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

• The Kumano Shrine Festival is held annually on the first Saturday and Sunday of September. The festival features a variety of events, including a mikoshi procession, kagura performances, and food stalls.
• The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.
• The shrine is located a 3-minute walk from Exit 3 of Jiyugaoka Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyu Oimachi Line.
• There is a parking lot available for visitors. The parking fee is 500 yen per day.

Parking Information

There is a parking lot available for visitors to Kumano Shrine. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine. The parking fee is 500 yen per day.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years