A dazzling display of lights and traditions at Azumabashi
Basic Information
Azumabashi Shrine is located in the Asakusa district of Taito Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms, seas, and agriculture.
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Azumabashi Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful 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, which takes place on the final day of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Azumabashi Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. During the Azumabashi Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held several times a day. The dances are performed by young women dressed in colorful costumes, and they tell stories from Japanese mythology.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! During the Azumabashi Shrine Festival, there are many food stalls selling a variety of delicious treats. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).
Bon Odori
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to remember and honor the dead. During the Azumabashi Shrine Festival, there is a Bon Odori performance on the final day of the festival. Visitors are welcome to join in the dancing.
Blessings and Deities
Azumabashi Shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms, seas, and agriculture. He is also known as the god of protection and is revered for his role in slaying the eight-headed serpent, Yamata no Orochi. Visitors to the shrine pray for good luck, protection, and success in various aspects of their lives, including health, relationships, and career.
Origin and History
The origins of Azumabashi Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located on the banks of the Sumida River, but it was moved to its current location in 1661. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1871, but it was rebuilt in 1873. The current shrine building dates from 1935.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Azumabashi Shrine Festival:
- The festival is very popular, so it is important to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful sights and sounds of the festival.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs. For example, do not touch the mikoshi or take pictures of people without their permission.
- Enjoy the festival and have fun!
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Azumabashi Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is the Asakusa Parking Lot, which is located a 5-minute walk from the shrine. The parking fee is 500 yen per hour.
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. |
