Nakameguro’s vibrant festival of lights
Basic Information
Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Nakameguro district of Meguro, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and archery.
- Address: 3-10-5 Nakameguro, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 153-0061
- Phone Number: 03-3712-5507
- Access: 7-minute walk from Nakameguro Station on the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
- Festival Days: September 28th (Sat) and 29th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment, as well as food and games.
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 mikoshi of Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women dressed in colorful costumes. The kagura performance is a beautiful and graceful way to learn about Japanese culture.
Food and Games
The festival also features a variety of food and games. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also a variety of games to play, such as ring toss and goldfish scooping.
- Food: Traditional Japanese dishes such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki
- Games: Ring toss, goldfish scooping, and other traditional Japanese games
Blessings and Deities
Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and archery. Hachiman is also revered as the protector of warriors and the patron of victory. The shrine is a popular destination for people who are seeking blessings for success in battle, business, or other endeavors.
- Deity: Hachiman, the god of war and archery
- Blessings: Success in battle, business, and other endeavors
Origin and History
The origins of Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Nakameguro, but it was moved to its current location in 1868.
- Founded: Early Edo period (1603-1868)
- Original location: Different part of Nakameguro
- Current location: Moved in 1868
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, here are a few tips:
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring cash, as many of the food and game vendors do not accept credit cards.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Nakameguro Hachiman Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby.
- Nakameguro Park Parking Lot
- Meguro Gajoen Parking Lot
- Nakameguro Atre Parking Lot
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. |
