Enchanting shrine festival in Shinagawa, Tokyo

Basic Information

Sanya Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Hachiman, the patron deity of warriors and victory. The shrine was founded in 1030 by Minamoto no Yorinobu, a powerful samurai lord. It is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, especially during its annual festival in September.

• Address: 5-8-7 Koyama, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 142-0062
• Phone Number: 03-3782-2615
• Access: A 6-minute walk from Musashi-Koyama Station on the Tokyu Meguro Line
• Festival Days: Nearest Saturday and Sunday to September 6 and 7, 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Sanya 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. On the evening of the first day of the festival, seven mikoshi (portable shrines) from local neighborhood associations gather at Musashi-Koyama Station. They are then carried through the streets of the neighborhood, accompanied by music and dancing. The procession is a vibrant and energetic display of community spirit.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Sanya Hachiman Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held on both days of the festival. The performances are a beautiful and graceful way to learn more about Japanese culture.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Sanya Hachiman Shrine Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. There will also be plenty of drinks available, including beer, sake, and soft drinks.

Games and Activities

There will also be a variety of games and activities for children and adults alike. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals. There will also be a stage where local performers will be giving live music and dance performances.

Fireworks Display

The festival culminates in a spectacular fireworks display on the evening of the second day. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they can be seen from all over the neighborhood. The fireworks display is a beautiful and fitting end to the festival.

Blessings and Deities

Sanya Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the god Hachiman, the patron deity of warriors and victory. Hachiman is also revered as the protector of the local community and is said to bring blessings of good health, prosperity, and success. Visitors to the shrine often pray for these blessings, as well as for good luck in exams, business, and relationships.

Origin and History

Sanya Hachiman Shrine was founded in 1030 by Minamoto no Yorinobu, a powerful samurai lord. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Shinagawa, but it was moved to its current location in 1688. The shrine has been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike ever since.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

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

• The festival is held on the nearest Saturday and Sunday to September 6 and 7 each year.
• The festival is free to attend.
• The festival is very popular, so it is best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
• There will be a variety of food stalls and games at the festival.
• There is a parking lot near the shrine, but it is limited. It is best to use public transportation or park in a nearby neighborhood.

Parking Information

There is a parking lot near the Sanya Hachiman Shrine, but it is limited. It is best to use public transportation or park in a nearby neighborhood. The nearest train station is Musashi-Koyama Station on the Tokyu Meguro Line. From the station, it is a 6-minute walk to the shrine.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years