Enchanting Shrine Festival in Tokyo’s Vibrant District
Basic Information
Uka八幡宮 is a ShintoAccess: 5-minute walk from Sumiyoshi Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line or Toei Bus No. 22 from Kinshicho Station
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Uka八幡宮 Festival is a vibrant and lively 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, where portable shrines are carried through the streets by teams of people. The mikoshi are elaborately decorated and carried by teams of people, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
Traditional Performances
During the festival, there are also a variety of traditional performances, such as taiko drumming, kagura dance, and shishimai lion dance. These performances are a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Uka八幡宮 Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling a variety of delicious Japanese dishes, such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki.
Games and Activities
There will also be a variety of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy, such as goldfish scooping, ring toss, and face painting.
Blessings and Deities
Uka八幡宮 is dedicated the Shinto god of agriculture and food. Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami is believed to bring blessings of good harvests, bountiful crops, and prosperity to the local community.
Origin and History
The origins of Uka八幡宮 are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded during the Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally a small Inari shrine, but it was later expanded and dedicated to Uka-no-Mitama-no-Kami.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Uka八幡宮 Festival is a popular event, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- There are a variety of food stalls at the festival, so visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes.
- The festival is also a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and tradition, such as taiko drumming and kagura dance.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Uka八幡宮. Visitors are advised to 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. |
