Divine illumination, a spectacle of lights at Washi Shrine
Basic Information
Washi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shimane, Adachi Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Yamatotakeru-no-mikoto, the legendary prince who is said to have conquered eastern Japan. The shrine is known for its annual酉の市 (酉の市, Tori no Ichi) festival, held on the Day of the Rooster in the Chinese zodiac. During the festival, the shrine is decorated with colorful lanterns and stalls selling縁起物 (縁起物, engi-mono), or good luck charms.
- Address: 4-25-1 Shimane, Adachi-ku, Tokyo 121-0815
- Phone Number: 03-3883-6140
- Access: 15-minute walk from either Nishiarai, Takenotsuka, or Umejima Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
- Festival Days: November 17th, 2024 (Reiwa 6)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Washi Shrine Tori no Ichi festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts large crowds of people each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
酉の市 (Tori no Ichi)
The Tori no Ichi market is the main attraction of the festival. It is held on the Day of the Rooster in the Chinese zodiac, which falls on November 17th in 2024. The market is lined with stalls selling a variety of goods, including縁起物 (engi-mono), or good luck charms, such as kumade (bamboo rakes), figurines of the god Daikokuten, and other縁起物 (engi-mono). Visitors to the market can also enjoy a variety of food and drink, as well as live music and entertainment.
縁起物 (Engi-mono)
縁起物 (Engi-mono) are good luck charms that are sold at the Tori no Ichi market. These charms are believed to bring good luck and fortune to their owners. Some of the most popular縁起物 (engi-mono) include:
- 熊手 (Kumade): Bamboo rakes that are decorated with縁起物 (engi-mono), such as coins, rice, and fish. Kumade are said to bring good luck and fortune to businesses.
- 大黒天 (Daikokuten): Figurines of the god Daikokuten, who is the god of wealth and fortune. Daikokuten figurines are said to bring good luck and prosperity to their owners.
- 福笹 (Fukusasa): Bamboo branches that are decorated with縁起物 (engi-mono), such as coins, rice, and fish. Fukusasa are said to bring good luck and fortune to homes and businesses.
Food and Drink
A variety of food and drink is available at the Tori no Ichi market. Some of the most popular foods include:
- 焼き鳥 (Yakitori): Grilled chicken skewers
- お好み焼き (Okonomiyaki): Japanese savory pancakes
- たこ焼き (Takoyaki): Octopus dumplings
- 焼きそば (Yakisoba): Stir-fried noodles
Live Music and Entertainment
There is also a variety of live music and entertainment at the Tori no Ichi festival. Some of the most popular performances include:
- 獅子舞 (Shishimai): Lion dance
- 神楽 (Kagura): Traditional Japanese music and dance
- 太鼓 (Taiko): Japanese drumming
Blessings and Deities
Washi Shrine is dedicated to the god Yamatotakeru-no-mikoto, a legendary prince who is said to have conquered eastern Japan. Yamatotakeru-no-mikoto is also known as the god of victory, and he is often worshipped by people who are seeking success in their endeavors.
- Deity: Yamatotakeru-no-mikoto
- Blessings: Victory, success, good luck
Origin and History
The origins of Washi Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the 13th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Adachi Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1624. Washi Shrine has been a popular destination for worshippers for centuries, and it is especially popular during the annual酉の市 (Tori no Ichi) festival.
- Founded: 13th century
- Moved to current location: 1624
- Popular festival:酉の市 (Tori no Ichi)
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Washi Shrine:
- The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
- Admission is free.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There is a small gift shop on the shrine grounds where you can purchase souvenirs.
- The shrine is located in a quiet residential neighborhood. Please be respectful of the neighbors when visiting.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Washi Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby.
- Adachi Ward Office Parking Lot: 5-minute walk from the shrine
- Shimane Elementary School Parking Lot: 10-minute walk from the shrine
- Shimane Park Parking Lot: 15-minute walk from the shrine
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. |
