Gleaming lights and divine processions: A sacred spectacle in Mitaka
Basic Information
Tamamitsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Mitaka City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Tamamitsu Ōkami, who is said to be the creator of the universe and the protector of humanity.
- Address: 4-11-1 Inokashira, Mitaka-shi, Tokyo 181-0001
- Phone Number: 0422-48-4495
- Access: 4-minute walk from Kichijoji Station on the Keio Inokashira Line
- Festival Days: May 4th (Sat) to May 6th (Mon), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Tamamitsu Shrine Festival is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts visitors from all over Japan. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on the evening of May 5th. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Tamamitsu Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and ornate, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets of Mitaka City.
Taiko Drumming
Taiko drumming is a traditional Japanese art form that involves playing large drums. During the Tamamitsu Shrine Festival, there are several taiko drumming performances held throughout the festival grounds. The powerful and rhythmic sound of the taiko drums is sure to get your blood pumping.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Tamamitsu Shrine Festival, you can find a wide variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls).
Bon Odori Dancing
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during Obon, a Buddhist holiday that honors the spirits of the dead. During the Tamamitsu Shrine Festival, there is a Bon Odori dance performance held on the evening of May 6th. Visitors are welcome to join in the dancing and experience this unique Japanese tradition.
Blessings and Deities
Tamamitsu Shrine is dedicated to the deity Tamamitsu Ōkami, who is said to be the creator of the universe and the protector of humanity. Tamamitsu Ōkami is also known as the “God of Great Light” and is believed to bring blessings of good fortune, health, and prosperity to those who worship him.
- Deity: Tamamitsu Ōkami
- Blessings: Good fortune, health, prosperity
Origin and History
The origins of Tamamitsu Shrine are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been founded over 1,000 years ago. The shrine was originally located in the village of Tamamitsu, but it was moved to its current location in Mitaka City in 1932. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1964.
- Founded: Over 1,000 years ago
- Original Location: Village of Tamamitsu
- Current Location: Mitaka City
- Rebuilt: 1964
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Tamamitsu Shrine Festival:
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking during the festival.
- Bring cash: Many of the food and souvenir stalls at the festival only accept cash.
- Be prepared for crowds: The festival is very popular, so be prepared for large crowds.
- Arrive early for the mikoshi procession: The mikoshi procession is the highlight of the festival, so arrive early to get a good spot to watch.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Tamamitsu Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots and walk to the shrine.
- Limited parking available at the shrine
- Use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots
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. |
