A vibrant spectacle of lights and sounds at Tokyo’s Koroku Shrine

Basic Information

Koroku Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Minami-Senju area of Arakawa, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Omoitaru-no-Mikoto and Kashikone-no-Mikoto, and is known for its annual festival held in early June.

• Address: 8-5-6 Minami-Senju, Arakawa-ku, Tokyo 116-0003
• Phone Number: 03-3806-1673
• Access: A 12-minute walk from Minami-Senju Station on the JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and Tsukuba Express.
• Festival Days: June 1-2, 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Koroku Shrine Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the neighborhood. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and carried by teams of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a joyous occasion for the community.

Bon Odori Dance

Another popular event 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. The dance is performed in a circle, and it is accompanied by music and singing.

Food Stalls

The festival also features a variety of food stalls, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). There are also a variety of drinks available, including beer, sake, and soft drinks.

Games and Activities

In addition to the main events, the festival also offers a variety of games and activities for children and adults. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals.

Blessings and Deities

Koroku Shrine is dedicated to the deities Omoitaru-no-Mikoto and Kashikone-no-Mikoto. Omoitaru-no-Mikoto is the deity of thought and reflection, while Kashikone-no-Mikoto is the deity of wisdom and knowledge. Together, these two deities are said to bring blessings of good fortune, academic success, and prosperity to those who worship them.

Origin and History

The origins of Koroku Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 16th century by a samurai named Takada Kagezaemon. Takada was a retainer of the warlord Uesugi Kenshin, and he is said to have built the shrine after fleeing to the area following a defeat in battle. The shrine was originally known as Dairokuten, but it was renamed Koroku Shrine during the Meiji period.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

• The Koroku Shrine Festival is held annually on June 1-2. The festival features a variety of events, including a mikoshi procession, a bon odori dance, and food stalls.
• The shrine is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.
• There is a small parking lot available for visitors. However, it is recommended to use public transportation, as the shrine is located in a residential area with limited parking.
• The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies. If you are planning to visit the shrine for a special occasion, it is best to make a reservation in advance.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Koroku Shrine. However, it is recommended to use public transportation, as the shrine is located in a residential area with limited parking. The nearest station is Minami-Senju Station on the JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line, and Tsukuba Express. From the station, it is a 12-minute walk to the shrine.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years