Enchanting shrine festival in Tokyo, a fusion of tradition and modernity
Basic Information
Komadome Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 5-35-3 Kamima, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-0011
- Phone Number: 03-3410-5933
- Access: 15-minute walk from Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line and Setagaya Line
- Festival Days: October 15th (Sat) and 16th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Komadome Hachiman Shrine Festival is a two-day festival held annually in mid-October. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. On the second day of the festival, four portable shrines are carried through the streets of Setagaya Ward by local residents. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and colorful sight to behold.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the bon odori dance. This traditional Japanese dance is performed by people of all ages, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture. The bon odori dance is typically performed in the evening, and it is a lively and festive event.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Komadome Hachiman Shrine Festival is no exception. There will be a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls).
Games and Activities
There will also be a variety of games and activities for children and adults alike. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals. There is something for everyone at the Komadome Hachiman Shrine Festival.
Blessings and Deities
Komadome Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deities Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess, and Ojin Tenno, the god of war. The shrine is said to have been founded in 1308 by a local warlord named Hojo Sadatomo. Hojo Sadatomo was a devout believer in Hachiman, the god of war, and he built the shrine to pray for victory in battle.
- Deities Worshipped: Amaterasu Omikami (sun goddess) and Ojin Tenno (god of war)
- Benefits and Blessings: Good luck in battle, victory, and protection from harm
Origin and History
The origins of Komadome Hachiman Shrine can be traced back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333). In 1308, Hojo Sadatomo, a local warlord, built the shrine to pray for victory in battle. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Setagaya Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1609.
- Founded: 1308
- Founder: Hojo Sadatomo
- Original Location: Different part of Setagaya Ward
- Current Location: 5-35-3 Kamima, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-0011
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Komadome Hachiman Shrine Festival:
- The festival is held on October 15th and 16th, 2024.
- The festival is free to attend.
- The festival is a popular event, so it is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- There will be a variety of food stalls and games at the festival.
- The festival is a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and traditions.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Komadome Hachiman Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding area.
- Setagaya Public Parking Lot No. 1 (5-minute walk from the shrine)
- Setagaya Public Parking Lot No. 2 (10-minute walk from the shrine)
- Times Parking Setagaya Kamima (10-minute walk from 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. |