Enchanting shrine festival in Tokyo’s hidden oasis
Basic Information
Kunikoku Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Minato, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 2-1-16 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032
- Phone Number: 03-3583-2896
- Access: 3-minute walk from Roppongi Itchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
- Festival Days: June 8th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kunikoku Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on June 8th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight 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 Kunikoku Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession begins at the shrine and winds its way through the streets of the neighborhood, accompanied by music and dancing.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. The kagura performance at the Kunikoku Shrine Festival is a highlight of the event. The dancers wear colorful costumes and perform a variety of dances, including the “Lion Dance” and the “Sword Dance.”
Food Stalls
A variety of food stalls are set up at the festival, offering a wide range of Japanese and international cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), and kakigori (shaved ice). 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 nearby river, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors.
Blessings and Deities
The Kunikoku Shrine is dedicated to the deity Kuraokami no Mikoto, who is associated with five grains, good harvests, and the prevention of disasters. Kuraokami no Mikoto is also known as Ukanomitama no Mikoto, and is revered as the god of agriculture and industry.
- Deity: Kuraokami no Mikoto (Ukanomitama no Mikoto)
- Blessings: Five grains, good harvests, prevention of disasters, agriculture, industry
Origin and History
The exact origins of the Kunikoku Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in the Chiyoda district of Tokyo, but it was moved to its current location in Roppongi in the 17th century.
- Founded: Heian period (794-1185)
- Original location: Chiyoda district, Tokyo
- Current location: Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Kunikoku Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The festival is held on June 8th each year.
- The shrine is a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to the Kunikoku Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate up to 10 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. |