Divine floats parade through the streets of Tokyo
Basic Information
Ishihama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Minami-Senju, Arakawa, Tokyo, Japan. It is an old shrine with a history of over 1,200 years, and it is dedicated to the gods Amaterasu Omikami, Toyouke Omikami, and Juroujin.
- Address: 3-28-58 Minami-Senju, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo 116-0003
- Phone Number: 03-3801-6425
- Access: 15-minute walk from Minami-Senju Station on the Hibiya Line, or a 5-minute walk from Hashiba 2-chome bus stop on the Toei Bus
- Festival Days: Late May
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Ishihama 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, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the neighborhood. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and carried by a team of people. Along the route, people gather to watch the procession and offer prayers.
Shinkaichi
A lively market is held during the festival, where vendors sell a variety of food, drinks, and souvenirs. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese snacks, as well as local specialties. There are also games and activities for children.
Kagura
Traditional Japanese kagura dance performances are held at the shrine during the festival. Kagura is a sacred dance that is performed to entertain the gods and bring good luck. The dances are accompanied by music and singing.
Other Events
- Live music performances
- Cultural exhibitions
- Tea ceremony demonstrations
- Children’s games and activities
Blessings and Deities
Ishihama Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess; Toyouke Omikami, the goddess of food and agriculture; and Juroujin, the god of longevity. Visitors to the shrine can pray for good health, prosperity, and happiness.
Origin and History
Ishihama Shrine was founded in 724 AD by Emperor Shomu. It is one of the oldest shrines in Tokyo, and it has a long and rich history. The shrine has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries, but it has always remained an important place of worship for the local community.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- Photography is permitted inside the shrine, but please be respectful of other visitors.
- There is a small gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.
- The shrine is located in a residential area, so please be mindful of noise levels.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Ishihama Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby.
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. |
