Odawara’s shrine festival with a history of 1,000 years
Basic Information
Onatsuka Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nishikamata, Ota Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 6-22-1 Nishikamata, Ota-ku, Tokyo 144-0035
- Phone Number: 03-3731-8500
- Access: 7-minute walk from Keikyu Kamata Station
- Festival Days: Late July (Sat and Sun)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
Onatsuka Shrine’s annual summer festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts visitors from all over Tokyo. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment, as well as food and games.
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 Onatsuka Shrine mikoshi is particularly impressive, as it is decorated with elaborate carvings and colorful streamers.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the Bon Odori dance. This traditional Japanese dance is performed by people of all ages, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture firsthand.
Food and Games
In addition to the traditional entertainment, the festival also features a variety of food and games. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). There are also a variety of games to play, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
- Mikoshi Procession: A parade of portable shrines carried through the streets.
- Bon Odori Dance: A traditional Japanese dance performed by people of all ages.
- Food and Games: A variety of traditional Japanese food and games to enjoy.
Blessings and Deities
Onatsuka Shrine is dedicated to the deity Shojo-no-Tsubone, a legendary figure who is said to have been a loyal retainer of the warlord Nitta Yoshioki. After Yoshioki was killed in battle, Shojo-no-Tsubone is said to have thrown herself into the flames of his funeral pyre. She is now revered as a deity of love and fidelity.
- Deity: Shojo-no-Tsubone
- Benefits: Love, fidelity, relationships
Origin and History
The origins of Onatsuka Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the Muromachi period (1336-1573). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Ota Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1888.
- Founded: Muromachi period (1336-1573)
- Moved to current location: 1888
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Onatsuka Shrine is a popular destination for couples and those seeking love and fidelity. The shrine is also a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
- Couples and those seeking love and fidelity often visit the shrine.
- The shrine is also a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Onatsuka Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby.
- There is no parking lot at Onatsuka Shrine.
- There are several coin-operated parking lots 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. |
