Divine lions dance under the autumn sky
Basic Information
Shibamata Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shibamata, Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 3-30-24 Shibamata, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0052
- Phone Number: 03-3607-4560
- Access: 2-minute walk from Keisei Shibamata Station
- Festival Days: Second Sunday of October (held on October 13th in 2024)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Shibamata Hachiman 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 Shibamata. 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 is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Shibamata Hachiman Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held several times a day. The performances are very beautiful and intricate, and they are a great way to learn more about Japanese culture.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Shibamata Hachiman Shrine Festival, there are many food stalls selling a variety of delicious treats. You can find everything from traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern fare like hamburgers and hot dogs. There is something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the main events, there are also a number of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy at the Shibamata Hachiman Shrine Festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals. There is also a petting zoo where children can interact with animals like rabbits and goats.
Blessings and Deities
Shibamata Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the deities Hachiman, the god of war and guardian of warriors, and Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms. Hachiman is also revered as the protector of the local community and is believed to bring blessings of good health, prosperity, and success.
- Hachiman: God of war and guardian of warriors
- Konohanasakuya-hime: Goddess of Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms
Origin and History
The origins of Shibamata Hachiman Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 11th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Shibamata, but it was moved to its current location in 1642. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently in 1968.
- Founded: 11th century
- Moved to current location: 1642
- Rebuilt: 1968
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Shibamata Hachiman Shrine:
- Hours: The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Admission: Admission to the shrine is free.
- Dress code: There is no specific dress code for visiting the shrine, but it is considered respectful to dress modestly.
- Photography: Photography is permitted within the shrine grounds, but please be respectful of other visitors and avoid taking pictures of people without their permission.
- Events: The shrine holds several annual events, including the Shibamata Hachiman Shrine Festival in October and the Setsubun Festival in February.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available at Shibamata Hachiman Shrine, but it is often full during peak times. There are also several public parking lots located nearby.
- Shrine parking lot: Small parking lot available, but often full during peak times
- Public parking lots: Several public parking lots located nearby
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. |
