Gleaming lights and divine blessings at Irugi Shrine
Basic Information
Irugi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Osaki, Shinagawa Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 3-8-20 Osaki, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 141-0032
- Phone Number: 03-3491-7490
- Access: 3-minute walk from Osaki Station, JR Yamanote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan Shinjuku Line, Tokyo Waterfront Area Rapid Transit Rinkai Line
- Festival Days: August 25th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Irugi Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on the final day of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The Irugi Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a festive and joyous occasion.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular event at the festival is the Bon Odori dance. Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to remember and honor the dead. The Bon Odori dance is a lively and energetic dance, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture. Visitors to the festival are encouraged to join in the dance.
Food and Games
There are also a variety of food and games available at the festival. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese festival foods such as yakisoba, takoyaki, and cotton candy. There are also a variety of games to play, such as ring toss and goldfish scooping. The festival is a great place to enjoy a day out with family and friends.
Blessings and Deities
Irugi Shrine is dedicated to a number of deities, including:
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto: The legendary prince who is said to have unified Japan.
- Takaokami no Kami: The god of rain and thunder.
- Ookuninushi no Mikoto: The god of business and prosperity.
- Amenokoyane no Mikoto: The god of scholarship and learning.
- Kuraokami no Mikoto: The god of food and agriculture.
- Tajikarao no Mikoto: The god of strength and power.
- Yodohime no Mikoto: The goddess of water and fertility.
- Kannoshoo: The god of calligraphy and scholarship.
- Ooyamatsumi no Mikoto: The god of mountains and forests.
Visitors to the shrine can pray to these deities for blessings in a variety of areas, such as health, wealth, and success.
Origin and History
The origins of Irugi Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located near the Irugi Bridge on the Meguro River, but it was moved to its current location in 1661 to avoid flooding. The shrine was rebuilt in 1953 after being destroyed by fire during World War II.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Irugi Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, it is a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- The shrine is located in a residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors when visiting.
- There is a small parking lot at the shrine, but it is often full during the festival. There are also several coin-operated parking lots in the area.
- The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot at the shrine, but it is often full during the festival. There are also several coin-operated parking lots in the area. The following are some of the closest parking lots to the shrine:
- Irugi Shrine Parking Lot: This is the closest parking lot to the shrine, but it is also the smallest. It is often full during the festival.
- Osaki Station Parking Lot: This parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine. It is larger than the Irugi Shrine Parking Lot, but it is also more expensive.
- Shinagawa Central Park Parking Lot: This parking lot is located a few minutes’ walk from the shrine. It is the largest and most affordable parking lot in the area.
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. |