Glowing lanterns illuminate the night at Sumida

Basic Information

Glowing lanterns illuminate the night at Sumida, adorning the festival held at Goba-shirai Shrine.

• Address: 4-11-6 Midori, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0021
• Phone Number: 03-3631-4619
• Access: 10-minute walk from Kinshicho Station on the JR Sobu Line or Toei Subway Hanzomon Line, or a 2-minute walk from Etchujima Station on the Toei Subway Shinjuku Line
• Festival Days: April 26th (Fri) and October 26th (Sat), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Goba-shirai Shrine Festival is a vibrant celebration that showcases traditional Japanese culture and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Mikoshi Procession

One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Sumida by local residents. The mikoshi is elaborately decorated with colorful tapestries and ornaments, and the procession is accompanied by traditional music and dance.

Lantern Festival

During the festival, the shrine grounds are illuminated with hundreds of colorful lanterns, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through the lantern-lit paths and enjoy the beautiful displays.

Food Stalls

A variety of food stalls line the streets around the shrine, offering a wide selection of traditional Japanese festival foods. From classic dishes like yakitori and takoyaki to unique regional specialties, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Traditional Performances

Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese performances such as kagura (sacred Shinto music and dance) and taiko drumming. These performances provide a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage and add to the festive atmosphere of the event.

Fireworks Display

The festival culminates in a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky over Sumida. The fireworks are launched from a barge on the Sumida River, providing a breathtaking view for spectators.

Blessings and Deities

Goba-shirai Shrineimyojin. These deities are revered for their various blessings and are believed to bring good fortune and protection to those who worship them.

• Ukanomitama-no-Mikoto: The deity of food, agriculture, and industry. Pray to this deity for bountiful harvests, success in business, and prosperity.
• Otoshi-no-Mikoto: The deity of wealth and good fortune. Pray to this deity for financial success, prosperity, and material abundance.
• Omononushi-no-Mikoto: The deity of marriage, relationships, and fertility. Pray to this deity for a happy and harmonious marriage, successful relationships, and the blessing of children.
• Omiya-no-Me-no-Mikoto: The deity of safe childbirth and childrearing. Pray to this deity for a safe and easy childbirth, healthy children, and a happy family life.
• Susanoo-no-Mikoto: The deity of protection, warding off evil, and overcoming obstacles. Pray to this deity for protection from harm, strength in overcoming challenges, and success in endeavors.

Origin and History

The origins of Goba-shirai Shrine can be traced back to the Edo period. In 1728, a local feudal lord named Uemura Tosanokami Masatomo enshrined a deity from the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto at his residence in Sumida. This marked the establishment of Goba-shirai Shrine, which has since become a beloved place of worship for the local community.

• 1728: Uemura Tosanokami Masatomo enshrines a deity from Fushimi Inari Shrine at his residence in Sumida, marking the establishment of Goba-shirai Shrine.
• 1880: Goba-shirai Shrine is officially recognized as a public shrine by the Japanese government.
• 1945: The shrine is destroyed during the air raids of World War II.
• 1954: The shrine is rebuilt and the current honden (main shrine building) is constructed.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

To make the most of your visit to Goba-shirai Shrine, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:

• Dress respectfully: As with all Shinto shrines, visitors are expected to dress respectfully when visiting Goba-shirai Shrine. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or other casual attire.
• Purify yourself before entering: Before entering the shrine grounds, take a moment to purify yourself at the temizuya (water purification basin). Rinse your hands and mouth with the water provided.
• Offer your prayers: To offer your prayers at the shrine, approach the honden (main shrine building) and bow twice. Then, clap your hands twice and bow once more. Finally, state your prayers silently or aloud.
• Receive omikuji: If you wish, you can receive an omikuji (fortune slip) at the shrine. Shake the omikuji box until a slip falls out, then read the message inside.
• Enjoy the festival: If you visit during the shrine’s annual festival, be sure to participate in the various activities and events, such as the mikoshi procession and lantern festival.

Parking Information

There is limited parking available at Goba-shirai Shrine. If you are driving, it is recommended to arrive early or use public transportation.

• On-site parking: There is a small parking lot at the shrine that can accommodate a limited number of vehicles. Parking is free of charge.
• Nearby parking: There are several coin-operated parking lots located within walking distance of the shrine. Rates vary depending on the lot.
• Public transportation: Goba-shirai Shrine is easily accessible by public transportation. The closest station is Kinshicho Station on the JR Sobu Line and Toei Subway Hanzomon Line. From the station, it is a 10-minute walk to the shrine.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years