Divine illumination in Toshima: Otsuka Tenso Shrine’s annual spectacle
Basic Information
Otsuka Tenso Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is the tutelary shrine of the former巣鴨村 (Sugamo Village), which is now part of Toshima Ward.
- Address: 1-49-1 Minami-Otsuka, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0005
- Phone Number: 03-3983-2322
- Access: 3-minute walk from Otsuka Station on the JR Yamanote Line or Toden Arakawa Line
- Festival Days: September 17th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Otsuka Tenso Shrine Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The mikoshi is believed to be the temporary dwelling place of a deity, and the procession is a way to show respect and gratitude to the deity.
- Overview: A parade of portable shrines carried by participants
- Significance: Represents the temporary dwelling of a deity and a display of respect and gratitude
Yatai (Food Stalls)
No Japanese festival is complete without yatai, or food stalls. At the Otsuka Tenso Shrine Festival, you can find a wide variety of yatai selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Some of the most popular yatai items include takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and kakigori (shaved ice).
- Overview: Food stalls offering a variety of Japanese and international dishes
- Popular Items: Takoyaki, yakisoba, kakigori, and many more
Stage Performances
Throughout the festival, there are a variety of stage performances held at the shrine. These performances include traditional Japanese music and dance, as well as more modern performances such as pop music and comedy shows.
- Overview: Stage performances showcasing traditional and modern Japanese arts
- Types of Performances: Traditional Japanese music and dance, pop music, comedy shows, and more
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children and adults to enjoy at the festival. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals.
- Overview: Games and activities for all ages
- Traditional Games: Ring toss, goldfish scooping, and more
- Modern Games: Face painting, balloon animals, and more
Blessings and Deities
Otsuka Tenso Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the most important deity in the Shinto religion. Amaterasu Omikami is believed to be the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family, and she is revered as the protector of Japan and its people.
- Deity: Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess
- Significance: Ancestor of the Japanese imperial family, protector of Japan and its people
Origin and History
The origins of Otsuka Tenso Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the late Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Toshima Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1935.
- Establishment: Late Kamakura period (1185-1333)
- Relocation: Moved to current location in 1935
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you are planning to visit the Otsuka Tenso Shrine Festival, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:
- The festival is very popular, so it is important to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring cash, as many of the food stalls and vendors do not accept credit cards.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs. For example, it is considered rude to take photos of people without their permission.
Parking Information
There is no dedicated parking lot for the Otsuka Tenso Shrine Festival. However, there are a number of public parking lots in the area. You can also use public transportation to get to the festival.
- No dedicated parking lot for the festival
- Public parking lots available in the area
- Public transportation is also an option
Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years
| Type of Stall | Description |
|---|---|
| Takoyaki | A staple at Japanese festivals. Characterized by a crispy outside and a creamy inside. |
| Jaga Butter | A simple yet popular snack of hot potatoes lavishly topped with melted butter. |
| Baby Castella | Small castella cakes, sweet and fluffy treats enjoyed by children and adults alike. |
| Grilled Ayu with Salt | Fresh ayu fish grilled whole with salt, a savory taste of Japanese summer. |
| Shaapin | A unique gourmet item influenced by foreign cuisine, with a chewy skin wrapping the filling. |
| Okonomiyaki | A Japanese grilled dish where you often choose your own ingredients for a personalized flavor. |
| Cotton Candy | A fluffy, sweet snack that’s extremely popular with children. |
| Chocolate Banana | A banana coated in chocolate, a fun and visually appealing dessert. |
| Kushiyaki | Various types of ingredients skewered and grilled, an easy-to-enjoy snack. |
| Yakisoba | Fried noodles mixed with a special sauce, a fast food favorite in Japan. |
