Tokyo’s summer festival with giant sacred ring of rice straw
Shinto shrine located in Kameido, Koto City, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 9-15-7 Kameido, Koto-ku, Tokyo 136-0071
- Phone Number: 03-3682-1581
- Access: 10-minute walk from Toei Shinjuku Line Ojima Station
- Festival Days: July 1st (Tue), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kameido Asama 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, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Kameido. The mikoshi is decorated with elaborate carvings and ornaments, and it is carried by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular attraction of the festival is the Bon Odori dance. This traditional Japanese dance is performed by people of all ages, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture. The dance is simple to learn, and it is a lot of fun to participate in.
Food Stalls
The festival also features a variety of food stalls, where you can sample a wide range of Japanese dishes. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup). There are also a number of stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a barge in the Sumida River, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors. The fireworks display is a fitting end to a day of celebration.
Blessings and Deities
Kameido Asama Shrine is dedicated to the deity Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji and safe childbirth. She is also known as the goddess of good luck and prosperity. Visitors to the shrine pray for blessings such as safe childbirth, good health, and success in business.
Origin and History
The origins of Kameido Asama Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early 17th century. The shrine was originally located on a hill called Kogai-zuka, but it was moved to its current location in 1659. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1868, but it was rebuilt in 1872. The shrine has been a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists ever since.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Kameido Asama Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings, so it is best to avoid visiting during wedding ceremonies.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is located near the Kameido Tenjin Shrine, another popular tourist destination. You can visit both shrines in one day.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Kameido Asama Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars. The parking fee is 500 yen per day.
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. |
