Enchanting melodies and vibrant lights at Yata Shrine
Basic Information
Yata Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Yamatocho, Nakano Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 2-30-3 Yamatocho, Nakano Ward, Tokyo 165-0034, Japan
- Phone Number: 03-3330-6377
- Access: 13-minute walk from Koenji Station on the JR Chuo Line or the Seibu Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: July 22nd (Sat), July 23rd (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Yata Shrine Yamatocho Nakano Ward Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. Here are some of the main events and attractions of the festival:
Bon Odori Dance
One of the main highlights of the festival is the Bon Odori dance. This traditional Japanese dance is performed by people of all ages, dressed in colorful yukata (summer kimono). The dance is accompanied by traditional Japanese music, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture and traditions.
- Overview: Traditional Japanese dance performed by people of all ages
- Features: Colorful yukata, traditional Japanese music, and lively atmosphere
Mikoshi Procession
Another popular event at the festival is the Mikoshi Procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and festive sight to behold.
- Overview: Portable shrine carried through the streets by a team of people
- Features: Music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere
Food and Games
The festival also features a variety of food and games. There are many stalls selling traditional Japanese food, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). There are also games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
- Overview: Variety of food and games for people of all ages
- Features: Traditional Japanese food, games for children, and a lively atmosphere
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks light up the night sky and provide a fitting end to the festival.
- Overview: Spectacular fireworks display
- Features: Colorful fireworks and a lively atmosphere
Blessings and Deities
Yata Shrine is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and archery. Hachiman is also revered as the protector of warriors and the guardian of the nation. People pray to Hachiman for success in battle, victory over enemies, and protection from harm.
- Deity: Hachiman, the god of war and archery
- Blessings: Success in battle, victory over enemies, protection from harm
Origin and History
The origins of Yata Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 11th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Nakano Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1658. Yata Shrine has a long history of serving the local community, and it is a popular destination for worshippers and tourists alike.
- Founded: 11th century
- Original location: Different part of Nakano Ward
- Current location: Moved in 1658
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Yata Shrine:
- Dress respectfully. When visiting a Shinto shrine, it is important to dress respectfully. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other casual clothing.
- Purify yourself before entering the shrine. There is a water fountain near the entrance of the shrine where you can purify yourself by washing your hands and mouth.
- Offer a donation. It is customary to offer a donation to the shrine when you visit. There is a donation box near the main shrine building.
- Write a wish. You can write a wish on a wooden tablet called an ema and hang it on a rack near the main shrine building.
- Receive a blessing. You can receive a blessing from a priest at the shrine. The priest will chant a prayer and give you a small piece of paper with a blessing written on it.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Yata Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby. You can also park on the streets around the shrine, but be sure to obey the parking regulations.
- Parking lot: None
- Nearby parking: Coin-operated parking lots
- Street parking: Available, but obey parking regulations
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. |
