A sacred festival of lights and music.

Basic Information

Here’s an overview of the 2024 Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival.

• Address: 4-6-7 Hagami, Hamura City, Tokyo
• Phone Number: 042-554-3405
• Access: 23-minute walk from JR Ome Line Hamura Station or Kosaku Station
• Festival Days: October 1st, 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival is a vibrant and lively event that offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the main highlights:

Mikoshi Procession

One of the main highlights of the festival is the Mikoshi Procession. During this event, a portable shrine called a mikoshi is carried through the streets of Hamura City by a team of people. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the deity of the shrine, and the procession is a way to show respect and gratitude to the deity.

Lion Dance

Another popular attraction at the festival is the Lion Dance. This dance is performed by a team of dancers wearing lion costumes. The dance is believed to bring good luck and fortune, and it is a lively and entertaining spectacle to watch.

Taiko Drumming

Taiko drumming is a traditional Japanese form of drumming that is often performed at festivals. At the Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival, there will be several taiko drumming performances by local groups. The powerful and rhythmic sounds of the taiko drums are sure to get your heart racing.

Food and Games

In addition to the main events, there will also be a variety of food and games available at the festival. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese festival foods such as yakisoba, takoyaki, and cotton candy. There will also be a variety of games and activities for children, such as face painting and balloon animals.

Blessings and Deities

The Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival is dedicated to the deity Takeiwatatsu no Mikoto, also known as Aso Daimyōjin. Takeiwatatsu no Mikoto is a powerful deity associated with thunder, lightning, and rain. He is also believed to be the protector of agriculture and crops. During the festival, people pray to Takeiwatatsu no Mikoto for good weather, bountiful harvests, and protection from natural disasters.

Origin and History

The origins of the Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival are unclear, but it is believed to have been held for centuries. The first written record of the festival dates back to the Edo period (1603-1868). During this time, the festival was held annually on October 1st. The festival continued to be held after the Meiji Restoration in 1868, but it was eventually discontinued in the early 20th century.

In 1991, the Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival was revived by a group of local residents. The festival has been held annually ever since, and it has become a popular event for both locals and tourists.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

If you are planning to attend the Aso Shrine Hamura City Festival, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:

• The festival is held on October 1st each year.
• The festival takes place at the Aso Shrine in Hamura City, Tokyo.
• The festival is free to attend.
• The festival is a popular event, so it is important to arrive early to avoid crowds.
• There will be a variety of food and drinks available for purchase at the festival.
• There will also be a variety of games and activities for children.

Parking Information

There is limited parking available at the Aso Shrine. If you are driving to the festival, it is recommended to arrive early to find a parking spot. There are also several public parking lots located within walking distance of the shrine.

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