Enchanting lights illuminate Asahikawa’s night sky
Basic Information
Suwa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Komagata, Taitō ward, Tokyo. It is a village shrine in the modern shrine ranking system.
- Address: 1-4-15 Komagata, Taitō ward, Tokyo 111-0043
- Phone Number: 03-3841-6115
- Access: 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, or a 5-minute walk from蔵前 Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
- Festival Days: 3rd Saturday and Sunday of May
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Suwa 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
One of the highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Suwa Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto festivals. The kagura performance at the Suwa Shrine festival is a highlight of the event. The dancers wear colorful costumes and perform a variety of dances, including the “lion dance” and the “sword dance.” The kagura performance is a beautiful and graceful way to learn more about Japanese culture.
Food and Games
The Suwa Shrine festival also features a variety of food and games. There are many stalls selling traditional Japanese food, such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also a variety of games to play, such as ring toss and goldfish scooping. The food and games are a great way to enjoy the festival atmosphere and have some fun.
Fireworks Display
The Suwa Shrine festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby river, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors. The fireworks display is a beautiful and exciting way to end the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Suwa Shrine is dedicated to the deities Takeminakata-no-Kami and Yasakatome-no-Kami. Takeminakata-no-Kami is the god of agriculture, water, and wind, while Yasakatome-no-Kami is the goddess of fertility and childbirth. The shrine is also associated with the god Sarutahiko-no-Kami, who is the god of roads and travel.
- Takeminakata-no-Kami: God of agriculture, water, and wind
- Yasakatome-no-Kami: Goddess of fertility and childbirth
- Sarutahiko-no-Kami: God of roads and travel
Origin and History
The origins of Suwa Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 13th century. The shrine was originally located in Shinano Province (present-day Nagano Prefecture), but it was moved to its current location in Tokyo in the 16th century. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently in 1934.
- Founded: 13th century
- Original location: Shinano Province (present-day Nagano Prefecture)
- Moved to current location: 16th century
- Rebuilt: 1934
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Suwa Shrine:
- Festival: The Suwa Shrine festival is held annually on the 3rd Saturday and Sunday of May. The festival features a mikoshi procession, kagura performance, food and games, and a fireworks display.
- Hours: The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission: Admission to the shrine is free.
- Access: The shrine is a 3-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, or a 5-minute walk from Kuramae Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Suwa Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots in the area.
- Asakusa Parking Lot: 1-1-1 Asakusa, Taitō-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Kuramae Parking Lot: 3-16-1 Kuramae, Taitō-ku, Tokyo 111-0051
- Komagata Parking Lot: 1-1-1 Komagata, Taitō-ku, Tokyo 111-0043
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. |