Enchanting Shrine Festival in Tokyo: A Journey Through History and Tradition

Basic Information

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Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Ko日向 Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. Here are some of the main highlights:

Mikoshi Procession

One of the main attractions 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 Ko日向 Shrine mikoshi is particularly impressive, as it is decorated with elaborate carvings and colorful tapestries. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere throughout the neighborhood.

Shishimai Dance

Another popular attraction at the festival is the shishimai dance. The shishimai is a lion-like creature that is said to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. The dance is performed by two people, one inside the shishimai costume and one outside. The shishimai moves to the rhythm of the music, and it often interacts with the crowd.

Yatai Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without yatai, or food stalls. At the Ko日向 Shrine Festival, there will be a variety of yatai selling all sorts of delicious food, from traditional Japanese dishes to more modern fare. Some of the most popular items include takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and kakigori (shaved ice).

Benefits and Deities

The Ko日向 Shrine is dedicated to several deities, including Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms and the sea; Amaterasu Omikami, the goddess of the sun; and Inari Okami, the god of rice and sake. Visitors to the festival can pray to these deities for good luck, health, and prosperity.

Blessings and Deities

The Ko日向 Shrine is dedicated to several deities, each with their own unique powers and blessings. Here is a brief overview:

• Susanoo-no-Mikoto: The god of storms and the sea, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is also known for his role in slaying the eight-headed serpent, Yamata no Orochi. He is revered as a protector against evil and a bringer of good luck.
• Amaterasu Omikami: The goddess of the sun, Amaterasu Omikami is the most important deity in the Shinto pantheon. She is worshipped as the giver of life and the source of all blessings. Her name literally means “great goddess who shines in heaven.”
• Inari Okami: The god of rice and sake, Inari Okami is also known as the patron deity of business and prosperity. He is often depicted as a white fox, and his shrines are often found near rice fields and businesses.

Origin and History

The Ko日向 Shrine has a long and storied history, dating back to the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally founded as two separate shrines: the Hikawa Shrine and the Hachiman Shrine. The Hikawa Shrine was dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, while the Hachiman Shrine was dedicated to Inari Okami. In 1869, the two shrines were merged to form the Ko日向 Shrine.

The shrine has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. The current main building was constructed in 1963, and it is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese architecture. The shrine is also home to a number of important cultural artifacts, including a wooden statue of Susanoo-no-Mikoto that is designated as a National Treasure.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are a few tips and notes for visitors to the Ko日向 Shrine:

• Dress Code: As with all Shinto shrines, visitors are expected to dress respectfully. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other casual clothing. It is also important to remove your shoes before entering the main shrine building.
• Photography: Photography is generally allowed within the shrine grounds, but it is important to be respectful of other visitors. Avoid taking pictures of people without their permission, and be sure to turn off your flash when taking pictures inside the main shrine building.
• Offerings: Visitors can make offerings to the deities at the shrine by purchasing ema (wooden plaques) or omikuji (paper fortunes). You can write your wishes or prayers on the ema and hang them on the designated rack. You can also shake the omikuji box to receive a fortune.

Parking Information

There is no dedicated parking lot for the Ko日向 Shrine. However, there are a number of public parking lots in the surrounding area. The closest parking lot is the Edogawabashi Parking Lot, which is located a 5-minute walk from the shrine. The parking fee is 300 yen per hour.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years