Divine lights dance at Susaki Shrine’s summer festival
Basic Information
Susaki Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Koto Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the goddess Benten, the goddess of wealth, fortune, and good luck. The shrine is known for its beautiful scenery and its association with the geisha district of Susaki, which was once a popular entertainment district in Tokyo.
- Address: 6-13-13 Kiba, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0042
- Phone Number: 03-3644-1092
- Access: A 2-minute walk from Kiba Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line
- Festival Days: August 3, 2024 (Saturday)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Susaki 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
A mikoshi is a portable Shinto shrine that is carried through the streets during festivals. The Susaki Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure that is carried by a team of people. The procession is a lively and colorful sight, and it is a highlight of the festival.
Kagura Dance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. The Susaki Shrine kagura dance is a beautiful and graceful performance that tells the story of the shrine’s founding. The dance is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in traditional costumes.
Bon Odori Dance
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed during the Obon festival. The Obon festival is a time to remember and honor the dead. The Susaki Shrine Bon Odori dance is a lively and energetic dance that is performed by people of all ages. The dance is a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition.
Food Stalls
There are many food stalls at the Susaki Shrine Festival. The stalls sell a variety of Japanese food, including yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also stalls that sell souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
The Susaki Shrine Festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a barge in the Sumida River. The display is a beautiful and fitting end to the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Susaki Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Benten, the goddess of wealth, fortune, and good luck. Benten is one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan, and she is often depicted as a beautiful woman holding a biwa, a Japanese lute. Benten is said to grant wishes for wealth, success, and happiness. She is also a patron of the arts, and she is often invoked by artists and musicians.
- Deity: Benten, the goddess of wealth, fortune, and good luck
- Benefits: Wealth, success, happiness, and good luck in the arts
Origin and History
The origins of Susaki Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 17th century. The shrine was originally located on the banks of the Sumida River, but it was moved to its current location in the 19th century. Susaki Shrine was a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists in the Edo period (1603-1868), and it was also a favorite spot for geisha to entertain their clients.
- Founded: 17th century
- Original location: Banks of the Sumida River
- Current location: 6-13-13 Kiba, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0042
- Popularity: Popular destination for pilgrims, tourists, and geisha in the Edo period
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Susaki Shrine is a popular tourist destination, and it is especially crowded during the summer months. If you are planning to visit the shrine, it is best to go early in the morning or late in the evening. The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day
- Admission: Free
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late evening
- Things to see: Mikoshi procession, kagura dance, bon odori dance, food stalls, fireworks display
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Susaki Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is the Kiba Parking Lot, which is located a 2-minute walk from the shrine.
- Kiba Parking Lot: 2-minute walk from the shrine
- Address: 6-10-1 Kiba, Koto-ku, Tokyo 135-0042
- Hours: 24 hours
- Rates: ¥300 per 30 minutes
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. |
