Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine: A Divine Spectacle of Floats and Drums
Basic Information
Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ooi, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Zao Gongen, a manifestation of the bodhisattva Kannon.
- Address: 1-14-8 Ooi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-0014
- Phone Number: 03-3771-5288
- Access: 5-minute walk from Ooi-machi Station on the JR, Rinkai, and Tokyu Oimachi Lines
- Festival Days: April 13th (Sat) and 14th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Tengu Mikoshi Procession
One of the most popular events of the festival is the Tengu Mikoshi Procession. During this procession, a large mikoshi (portable shrine) carried by men wearing tengu (goblin) masks parades through the streets of Ooi. The tengu masks are said to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Ooi Zao Gongen Taiko Drumming
Another highlight of the festival is the Ooi Zao Gongen Taiko Drumming. This performance features a group of drummers playing traditional Japanese taiko drums. The powerful and rhythmic sound of the drums fills the air and creates a festive atmosphere.
Food Stalls
During the festival, there are many food stalls selling a variety of delicious Japanese foods. Visitors can enjoy traditional festival foods such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children and adults to enjoy 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 art.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks light up the night sky and provide a fitting end to the festivities.
Blessings and Deities
Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine is dedicated to the deity Zao Gongen, a manifestation of the bodhisattva Kannon. Zao Gongen is said to bestow blessings of good luck, fortune, and protection.
- Good luck: Zao Gongen is believed to bring good luck to those who visit the shrine and pray to him.
- Fortune: Zao Gongen is also said to bestow fortune upon those who visit the shrine. This can include financial fortune, good health, or success in business.
- Protection: Zao Gongen is a powerful deity who is said to protect those who pray to him from harm and misfortune.
Origin and History
The origins of Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 16th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Ooi, but it was moved to its current location in 1909.
- 16th century: Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine is believed to have been founded in the 16th century.
- 1909: The shrine was moved to its current location in 1909.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine:
- Respect the shrine: Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine is a sacred place, so please be respectful of the shrine and its surroundings.
- Dress appropriately: When visiting the shrine, it is best to dress modestly and respectfully.
- Remove your shoes: When entering the main hall of the shrine, you will need to remove your shoes.
- Wash your hands and mouth: Before praying at the shrine, you can wash your hands and mouth at the chozuya (water purification basin).
- Make an offering: You can make an offering of money to the shrine by placing it in the offertory box.
- Pray to the deity: Once you have made an offering, you can pray to the deity by bowing and clapping your hands twice.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine, but there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby.
- Coin-operated parking lots: There are several coin-operated parking lots within a short walking distance of the shrine.
- Public transportation: Ooi Zao Gongen Shrine is also accessible by public transportation. The nearest station is Ooi-machi Station on the JR, Rinkai, and Tokyu Oimachi Lines.
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. |
