酉の市: Where luck and fortune gather under the illuminated night sky

Basic Information

Asakusa Otori Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Asakusa district of Taitō, Tokyo,

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The酉の市 (Tori no Ichi) is a lively and colorful festival held annually at Otori Shrine in Asakusa, Tokyo. It is one of the most popular and widely recognized festivals in the city, attracting large crowds of visitors each year.

酉の市 (Tori no Ichi) Festival

The Tori no Ichi festival is a vibrant celebration that takes place on the酉の日 (Day of the Rooster) of the Japanese zodiac calendar. This day occurs four times a year, and the festival is held on the first, second, and third酉の日. In 2024, the festival will be held on November 5th (Tue), November 17th (Sun), and November 29th (Fri).

• Dates: November 5th (Tue), November 17th (Sun), November 29th (Fri), 2024
• Location: Otori Shrine, 3-18-7 Senzoku, Taitō-ku, Tokyo 111-0031
• Highlights: Lively atmosphere, colorful decorations,縁起熊手 (縁起熊手), food stalls, and traditional performances

縁起熊手 (縁起熊手)

One of the main attractions of the Tori no Ichi festival is the縁起熊手 (縁起熊手), or “lucky rake.” These decorative rakes are believed to bring good luck and fortune to their owners, and they are a popular souvenir from the festival. The縁起熊手 are adorned with various symbols of good luck, such as coins, rice bales, and miniature tools.

• Description: Ornate rakes believed to bring good luck and fortune
• Significance: Symbolizes raking in good fortune and prosperity
• Popular Souvenir: Many visitors purchase縁起熊手 as a memento of the festival

Food Stalls

The Tori no Ichi festival is also known for its many food stalls, which offer a variety of delicious treats and snacks. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such asたこ焼き (takoyaki),焼きそば (yakisoba), andお好み焼き (okonomiyaki), as well as a variety of other cuisines.

• Variety of Food: Diverse range of food stalls offering various cuisines
• Popular Dishes:たこ焼き (takoyaki),焼きそば (yakisoba),お好み焼き (okonomiyaki)
• Festive Atmosphere: Enjoying food while immersed in the lively festival ambiance

Traditional Performances

During the Tori no Ichi festival, visitors can also enjoy traditional Japanese performances, such as獅子舞 (shishimai) and神楽 (kagura). These performances add to the festive atmosphere of the festival and provide a glimpse into Japanese culture and traditions.

• 獅子舞 (shishimai): Traditional lion dance symbolizing good luck and warding off evil spirits
• 神楽 (kagura): Sacred Shinto dance and music performed to entertain the gods and bring good fortune
• Cultural Experience: Opportunity to witness and appreciate Japanese performing arts

Blessings and Deities

Otori Shrine is dedicated to the deities Ame-no-Hiwashi-no-Mikoto and Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto. Ame-no-Hiwashi-no-Mikoto is the god of agriculture, commerce, and industry, while Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto is a legendary hero and warrior prince. Visitors to the shrine pray for good fortune in business, success in endeavors, and overall prosperity.

• Ame-no-Hiwashi-no-Mikoto: God of agriculture, commerce, and industry
• Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto: Legendary hero and warrior prince
• Blessings Sought: Good fortune in business, success in endeavors, overall prosperity

Origin and History

The origins of Otori Shrine can be traced back to the Edo period (1603-1868). In 1625, a small shrine dedicated to Ame-no-Hiwashi-no-Mikoto was established in the Asakusa district of Edo (present-day Tokyo). Over time, the shrine grew in popularity and became a popular destination for merchants and businesspeople seeking divine favor. In 1806, the shrine was relocated to its current location in Taitō-ku, Tokyo.

• Establishment: 1625 in Asakusa district of Edo
• Relocation: 1806 to current location in Taitō-ku, Tokyo
• Popularity: Grew among merchants and businesspeople seeking good fortune

Tips and Notes for Visitors

If you plan to visit Otori Shrine during the酉の市 (Tori no Ichi) festival, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid the crowds. The festival is extremely popular, and the streets surrounding the shrine can become very congested. It is also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as you will likely be doing a lot of walking.

• Arrive Early: Avoid crowds by arriving before the peak hours of the festival
• Comfortable Shoes: Be prepared for walking and navigating through busy streets
• Respectful Attire: Dress appropriately and respectfully when visiting the shrine

Parking Information

There is limited parking available near Otori Shrine. If you are driving, it is recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot and walk to the shrine. Several parking lots are located within a short walking distance of the shrine.

• Limited Parking: On-site parking is limited and may be crowded during the festival
• Public Transportation: Recommended to use trains or buses to avoid parking difficulties
• Nearby Parking Lots: Consider parking in nearby lots and walking to the shrine

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years