Vivid hues dance at Azabu Hikawa Shrine’s grand festival
Basic Information
Azabu Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Azabu district of Minato, Tokyo, Japan. It
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Azabu Hikawa Shrine Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment and activities, 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 of Azabu Hikawa Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and colorful event, and it is a great opportunity to see the traditional Japanese culture on display.
Traditional Dances and Performances
The festival also features a variety of traditional Japanese dances and performances. These performances are typically held on a stage in front of the shrine, and they include everything from traditional folk dances to modern pop music. The performances are a great way to learn more about Japanese culture and to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the festival.
Food and Games
In addition to the traditional entertainment, the festival also features a variety of food and games. There are many food stalls selling traditional Japanese dishes, as well as a variety of games and activities for children. The festival is a great place to sample some of the local cuisine and to have some fun with family and friends.
Blessings and Deities
Azabu Hikawa Shrine is dedicated to the following deities:
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto: The god of the sea and storms, and the younger brother of Amaterasu, the sun goddess.
- Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto: A legendary prince and warrior who is said to have conquered much of Japan.
These deities are believed to bestow blessings of good luck, prosperity, and protection from evil.
Origin and History
The origins of Azabu Hikawa Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 10th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Azabu, but it was moved to its current location in 1659.
Azabu Hikawa Shrine has a long and rich history. It has been visited by many famous people over the years, including the Tokugawa shoguns and the Emperor Meiji. The shrine has also been featured in several works of literature and art.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Azabu Hikawa Shrine:
- The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There are several restaurants and shops located near the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Azabu Hikawa Shrine. The parking lot is located on the north side of the shrine, and it can accommodate about 10 cars.
The parking lot is free of charge, but it is often full during peak hours. If you are planning to visit the shrine during a busy time, you may want to consider taking public transportation or parking in a nearby parking garage.
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. |
