Enchanting melodies and vibrant hues converge at Kita Ward’s grand festival
Basic Information
Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kita Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Ōhirume-no-Mikoto, and Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto.
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hikawa Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on June 1st. It is one of the most important festivals of the year for the shrine, and it attracts a large number of visitors.
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The mikoshi of Hikawa Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people.
Lion Dance
Another popular attraction of the festival is the lion dance. The lion dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed by two people wearing a lion costume. The lion dance is said to bring good luck and fortune, and it is always a crowd-pleaser.
Kagura
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed by shrine maidens. The kagura at Hikawa Shrine is particularly beautiful, and it is a must-see for any visitor to the festival.
Food Stalls
There are also a number of food stalls at the festival, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include takoyaki, yakisoba, and okonomiyaki.
- Mikoshi Procession: A large and impressive mikoshi is carried through the streets by a team of over 100 people.
- Lion Dance: A traditional Japanese dance performed by two people wearing a lion costume, symbolizing good luck and fortune.
- Kagura: A beautiful dance performed by shrine maidens, offering a glimpse into Japanese traditional culture.
- Food Stalls: A variety of Japanese dishes are available, including takoyaki, yakisoba, and okonomiyaki.
Blessings and Deities
Hikawa Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Ōhirume-no-Mikoto, and Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is the god of storms, the sea, and agriculture. Ōhirume-no-Mikoto is the goddess of the sun and Amaterasu’s younger sister. Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto is the goddess of fertility and marriage.
The shrine is said to offer a variety of blessings, including:
- Good luck in marriage and relationships
- Safe childbirth and childrearing
- Good health and longevity
- Success in business and career
- Protection from natural disasters
Origin and History
The origins of Hikawa Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 9th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Kita Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1624.
Hikawa Shrine has a long and rich history. It has been visited by many famous people over the years, including the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu and the emperor Meiji.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Hikawa Shrine:
- The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- There is a large parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There are a number of restaurants and shops located near the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a large parking lot available for visitors to Hikawa Shrine. The parking lot is located next to the shrine, and it can accommodate over 100 cars.
The parking fee is 500 yen per day.
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. |
