Gleaming lights dance at Hachiman Shrine
Basic Information
Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ota Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 4-2-7, Hisahara, Ota-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3752-4179
- Access: 11 minutes on foot from JR Kamata Station
- Festival Days: September 16th (Sat), September 17th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hachiman Shrine Hisahara Reitaisai Festival is a two-day annual event held in September. It features various traditional rituals, performances, and activities that attract many visitors to the shrine.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the Mikoshi Procession. On both days of the festival, the portable mikoshi shrine is carried through the streets of the Hisahara neighborhood, accompanied by traditional music and lively performances.
- Overview: Portable mikoshi shrine procession through the streets
- Features: Traditional music, lively performances, and participation from local residents
Kagura Performance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the Kagura Performance. This traditional Japanese dance and music is performed by shrine maidens and musicians, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
- Overview: Traditional Japanese dance and music performance
- Features: Performed by shrine maidens and musicians, showcasing Japanese cultural heritage
Food Stalls and Games
The festival also features a variety of food stalls offering delicious Japanese festival food and snacks. There are also various games and activities for children and adults to enjoy, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
- Overview: Food stalls offering Japanese festival food and snacks, games, and activities
- Features: Variety of food options, entertainment for all ages, and a lively atmosphere
Blessings and Deities
Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and patron deity of warriors in Japanese mythology. He is also revered as the protector of the nation and the symbol of martial prowess and victory.
- Deity: Hachiman, god of war and patron deity of warriors
- Blessings: Protection, victory, success in battle, martial prowess
Origin and History
The origins of Hachiman Shrine are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been founded during the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine has a long and storied history, and it has been visited by many famous historical figures, including the samurai warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Founded: Heian period (794-1185)
- Historical significance: Visited by famous figures like Tokugawa Ieyasu
Tips and Notes for Visitors
When visiting Hachiman Shrine, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Dress respectfully: As with all Shinto shrines, visitors should dress respectfully when visiting Hachiman Shrine. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other casual clothing.
- Purify yourself: Before entering the shrine, visitors should purify themselves by washing their hands and rinsing their mouths at the chozuya, a water purification basin.
- Offer a prayer: To offer a prayer at Hachiman Shrine, visitors should first bow twice, then clap their hands twice, and finally bow once more.
- Receive a fortune: Visitors can receive a fortune (omikuji) by shaking a box containing numbered sticks and then matching the number on their stick to a corresponding fortune slip.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at Hachiman Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots.
- Limited parking available at the shrine
- Public transportation or nearby parking lots recommended
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. |
