A lively festival with a grand parade and portable shrine, held every four years
Basic Information
Aoto Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 7-34-30 Aoto, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 124-0
- Access: 10 minutes on foot from Aoto Station on the Keisei Line
- Festival Days: September 9th and 10th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Aoto 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 Aoto Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession takes place on the second day of the festival, and it is a sight to behold.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto festivals. The kagura performance at the Aoto Shrine Festival is particularly popular, and it is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes. The kagura dance is a beautiful and graceful performance that tells the story of the gods and goddesses of Japan.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Aoto Shrine Festival is no exception. There are a variety of food stalls at the festival, selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to more modern fare. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks while they enjoy the festival.
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for visitors to enjoy at the Aoto Shrine Festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Aoto Shrine Festival.
Blessings and Deities
Aoto Shrine is dedicated to nine deities, including Sarutahiko no Mikoto, Takehaya Susanoo no Mikoto, and Ukanomitama no Mikoto. These deities are said to bring blessings such as good luck, prosperity, and protection from evil.
- Sarutahiko no Mikoto: God of guidance and crossroads
- Takehaya Susanoo no Mikoto: God of storms and the sea
- Ukanomitama no Mikoto: Goddess of food and agriculture
Origin and History
The origins of Aoto Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 16th century. The shrine was originally known as Sansha Myojin, but it was renamed Aoto Shrine in 1872. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1961.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Aoto Shrine Festival:
- The festival is held on September 9th and 10th, 2024.
- The festival is free to attend.
- The festival is very popular, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- There are a variety of food and drink stalls at the festival, so visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks.
- There are also a number of games and activities for visitors to enjoy at the festival.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Aoto Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot and walk to the shrine.
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. |
