Aoi Shrine Festival: A vibrant celebration of water and縁結び

Basic Information

Aoi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Chofu City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the water deity Aoi Ōkami and is considered the tutelary deity of the former Fukada Village.

• Address: 5-17-10 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0017
• Phone Number: 042-482-5710
• Access: 1-minute walk from Jindaiji Elementary School bus stop via Keio Bus from Chofu Station
• Festival Days: Third Saturday and Sunday of October

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Aoi Shrine Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration 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. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Aoi Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a lively and festive atmosphere.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Aoi Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes. The performance is both beautiful and entertaining, and it is a great way to learn about Japanese culture.

Bon Odori Dance

Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival. During the Aoi Shrine Festival, Bon Odori is performed by a group of people who are dressed in yukata, a traditional Japanese summer kimono. The dance is simple and easy to learn, and it is a great way to get involved in the festival and experience Japanese culture.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Aoi Shrine Festival, there are a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to modern festival favorites. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Chofu tempura and Jindaiji soba.

Blessings and Deities

Aoi Shrine is dedicated to the water deity Aoi Ōkami, who is said to bring blessings of rain and good harvests. The shrine is also believed to be a power spot for縁結び (enmusubi), or matchmaking. Many people visit the shrine to pray for good luck in finding a romantic partner.

Origin and History

The exact origins of Aoi Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded over 1,000 years ago. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Chofu City, but it was moved to its current location in 1665. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently in 1990.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

The Aoi Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, here are a few tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the festival is held outdoors.
• Arrive early to get a good spot for viewing the mikoshi procession and other events.
• Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Chofu tempura and Jindaiji soba.

Parking Information

There is limited parking available at Aoi Shrine. If you are driving to the festival, it is best to arrive early to get a spot. There are also several public parking lots located within walking distance of the shrine.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years