Shibuya’s shrine festival with a history of over 400 years
Basic Information
Miyamasu Mitake Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Yamato Takeru, the goddess Akiha, the god Okuninushi, and the god Sugawara.
- Address: 1-12-16 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0002
- Phone Number: 03-3407-7722
- Access: 5-minute walk from Shibuya Station
- Festival Days: September (Autumn Grand Festival), November酉の日 (酉の市)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Miyamasu Mitake Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. Some of the main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the 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 Miyamasu Mitake Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Miyamasu Mitake Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held several times a day. These performances are a great way to learn more about Japanese culture and tradition.
Yatai (Food Stalls)
No Japanese festival is complete without yatai, or food stalls. At the Miyamasu Mitake Shrine Festival, there are many yatai selling a variety of delicious foods, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and okonomiyaki. There are also many stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
酉の市 (酉の市)
The酉の市 (酉の市) is a special market that is held at Miyamasu Mitake Shrine on the Day of the Rooster in November. This market sells a variety of items, including rakes, brooms, and other household goods. It is said that buying these items at the酉の市 will bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year.
Blessings and Deities
Miyamasu Mitake Shrineushi, and Sugawara. These deities are believed to bestow various blessings upon worshippers, including:
- Yamato Takeru: Victory in battle, success in business, and protection from evil
- Akiha: Fire prevention, traffic safety, and good health
- Okuninushi: Good luck in marriage, childbirth, and business
- Sugawara: Success in studies, calligraphy, and the arts
Origin and History
The origins of Miyamasu Mitake Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early 15th century. The shrine was originally dedicated to蔵王権現 (Zao Gongen), a Buddhist deity. However, after the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the shrine was converted to Shinto and the current deities were enshrined.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Miyamasu Mitake Shrine Festival is a popular event, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- There are several food stalls at the festival, so you can enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes.
- The shrine is located in a busy area of Shibuya, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets and other petty crime.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Miyamasu Mitake Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding 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. |
