Shirahige Shrine lights up the night with vibrant hues.
Basic Information
Shirahige Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, the god of guidance and crossroads.
- Address: 3-5-2 Higashimukojima, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 131-0032
- Phone Number: 03-3611-2750
- Access: 10-minute walk from Tobu Skytree Line Higashimukojima Station
- Festival Days: June 7th and 8th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Shirahige 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
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 group of people. The Shirahige Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets. The mikoshi is accompanied by a group of musicians playing traditional Japanese instruments, and the procession is a lively and festive affair.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Shirahige Shrine Festival, a kagura performance is held on a stage in front of the shrine. The performance tells the story of the shrine’s founding, and it is a beautiful and moving sight.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Shirahige Shrine Festival is no exception. There are many food stalls set up around the shrine, selling a variety of delicious Japanese foods. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste).
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children at the festival. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals. There is something for everyone at the Shirahige Shrine Festival, making it a great event for families and friends to enjoy together.
Blessings and Deities
Shirahige Shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, the god of guidance and crossroads. He is said to be the one who guided the sun goddess Amaterasu out of a cave, where she had hidden herself after being angered by her brother Susanoo. Sarutahiko Okami is also known as the god of travel and safe journeys, and he is often worshipped by people who are about to embark on a new journey or venture.
- Sarutahiko Okami: God of guidance, crossroads, travel, and safe journeys
- Amaterasu: Goddess of the sun
- Susanoo: God of storms and the sea
Origin and History
The origins of Shirahige 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 Sumida Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1659. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1868, but it was rebuilt in 1872. Shirahige Shrine is a popular destination for worshippers and tourists alike, and it is especially crowded during the annual festival in June.
- Founded: 10th century
- Moved to current location: 1659
- Destroyed by fire: 1868
- Rebuilt: 1872
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Shirahige Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times if you are looking for a quiet experience.
- There is a small gift shop on the shrine grounds where you can purchase souvenirs and amulets.
- The shrine is located in a residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Shirahige Shrine, but there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is located about a 5-minute walk from the shrine.
- Shirahige Shrine Parking Lot: None
- Closest public parking lot: 5-minute walk from the shrine
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. |
