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

Basic Information

Koganei Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Koganei City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the kami (deity) Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician who lived in the Heian period (794-1185).

• Address: 4-7-2 Nakamachi, Koganei-shi, Tokyo 184-0012
• Phone Number: 042-381-3500
• Access: 10-minute walk from Musashi-Koganei Station on the JR Chuo Line
• Festival Days: September 25th, 2024 (Reiwa 6)

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Koganei Shrine Festival is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts visitors from all over the region. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment and activities, including:

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 team of people. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the kami (deity) of the shrine, and the procession is a way of showing respect to the kami and asking for its blessings.

Kagura Dance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. The dance is said to have originated in ancient times, and it is believed to have the power to purify the body and soul. The kagura dance at the Koganei Shrine Festival is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes.

Bon Odori Dance

Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival. The dance is said to welcome the spirits of the dead back to the world of the living. The Bon Odori dance at the Koganei Shrine Festival is performed by a group of people who are dressed in yukata (summer kimono). Visitors are also encouraged to join in the dance.

Food Stalls

There are a variety of food stalls at the Koganei Shrine Festival, selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks while they are enjoying the festival.

Games and Activities

There are also a variety of games and activities for children at the Koganei Shrine Festival. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals.

Blessings and Deities

Koganei Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician who lived in the Heian period (794-1185). Michizane is revered as a god of learning and scholarship, and students often visit Koganei Shrine to pray for success in their studies. The shrine is also said to be a good place to pray for good luck in business and career.

• Deity: Sugawara no Michizane
• Blessings: Learning and scholarship, business and career success

Origin and History

The origins of Koganei Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Koganei City, but it was moved to its current location in 1624. The shrine was rebuilt in 1889, and it has been designated as a cultural property of Koganei City.

• Founded: Early Heian period (794-1185)
• Moved to current location: 1624
• Rebuilt: 1889
• Designated as a cultural property of Koganei City

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Koganei Shrine Festival:

• The festival is held on September 25th, 2024.
• The festival is open to the public and free to attend.
• The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment and activities, including a mikoshi procession, kagura dance, and Bon Odori dance.
• There are also a variety of food stalls and games and activities for children.
• The festival is a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and traditions.

Parking Information

There is limited parking available at Koganei Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots.

• Limited parking available at Koganei Shrine
• Use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years