Enchanting Shrine Festival in Nakano, Tokyo
Basic Information
Shinmei Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Yayoi district of Nakano Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 4-27-30 Yayoi-cho, Nakano-ku, Tokyo 164-0013
- Phone Number: 03-3381-7629
- Access: 3-minute walk from Minami-Nakano Chiiki Center bus stop via Keio Bus from JR Nakano Station, or a 10-minute walk from Nakano-Fujimicho Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
- Festival Days: August (specific dates to be announced)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Shinmei Hikawa Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place over several days in August. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese events and activities, including:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main 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 mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the shrine’s deity, and the procession is a way to show respect and gratitude to the deity.
Bon Odori Dance
The bon odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to honor the spirits of the dead. The dance is performed in a circle, with people holding hands and singing traditional songs. The bon odori is a lively and festive event that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Food Stalls
During the festival, there are a number of food stalls that sell a variety of traditional Japanese foods, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). There are also a number of stalls that sell souvenirs and other goods.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors.
Blessings and Deities
Shinmei Hikawa Shrine is dedicated to five deities, each with their own unique blessings and powers:
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto: The main deity of the shrine, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is the god of storms, seas, and agriculture. He is also known for his bravery and strength.
- Ohhirume-no-Mikoto: Also known as Amaterasu Omikami, Ohhirume-no-Mikoto is the goddess of the sun and the universe. She is revered as the most important deity in the Shinto pantheon.
- Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto: The wife of Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto is the goddess of fertility and childbirth. She is also associated with beauty and good luck.
- Kotoshiro-nushi-no-Mikoto: The god of agriculture and industry, Kotoshiro-nushi-no-Mikoto is also known as the god of good fortune and prosperity.
- Ohoyamatsumi-no-Mikoto: The god of mountains and forests, Ohoyamatsumi-no-Mikoto is also associated with agriculture and fertility.
Origin and History
The origins of Shinmei Hikawa Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 15th century by Ota Dokan, a powerful samurai lord. The shrine was originally dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, but over time, four other deities were added to the shrine’s pantheon.
In the 20th century, the shrine was destroyed by fire during World War II. However, it was rebuilt in 1958, and it has since become a popular destination for worshippers and tourists alike.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Shinmei Hikawa Shrine Festival is held annually in August. The festival features a variety of events, including a mikoshi procession, a bon odori dance, and a fireworks display.
- The shrine is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors. However, it is recommended to use public transportation, as the shrine is located in a busy area.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies. If you are planning to visit the shrine for a special event, it is best to make a reservation in advance.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Shinmei Hikawa Shrine. However, it is recommended to use public transportation, as the shrine is located in a busy area.
The following public transportation options are available:
- JR Nakano Station: Take the Keio Bus from the south exit and get off at the Minami-Nakano Chiiki Center bus stop. The shrine is a 3-minute walk from the bus stop.
- Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line Nakano-Fujimicho Station: The shrine is a 10-minute walk from the station.
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. |
