Divine illumination at Tokyo’s Renkon Hikawa Shrine

into shrine located in the Itabashi ward of Tokyo, Japan. It is

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Renkon Hikawa Shrine Festival is a vibrant and lively 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 group of people. The mikoshi of the Renkon Hikawa Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and colorful event, and it is a great opportunity to experience the traditional culture of Japan.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. During the Renkon Hikawa Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes. The dance is graceful and elegant, and it is a beautiful way to learn about Japanese culture.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Renkon Hikawa Shrine Festival, there are a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of delicious treats. From traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern fare like crepes and hot dogs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Games and Activities

In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura performance, and food stalls, the Renkon Hikawa Shrine Festival also features a variety of games and activities for people of all ages. 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 also a petting zoo where children can interact with friendly animals.

hime-no-Mikoto is the goddess of fertility and marriage. The shrine is said to bring blessings of good luck, prosperity, and happiness to those who visit it.

• Susanoo-no-Mikoto: God of storms, seas, and agriculture
• Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto: Goddess of fertility and marriage
• Blessings: Good luck, prosperity, happiness

Origin and History

The origins of the Renkon Hikawa Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Itabashi Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1924. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1969.

• Founded: Early Edo period (1603-1868)
• Moved to current location: 1924
• Rebuilt: 1969

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Renkon Hikawa Shrine:

• Hours: The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
• Admission: Admission to the shrine is free.
• Dress code: There is no specific dress code for visiting the shrine, but it is considered respectful to dress modestly.
• Photography: Photography is permitted within the shrine grounds, but please be respectful of other visitors and avoid taking pictures of people without their permission.
• Festivals: The shrine holds several festivals throughout the year, including the annual Renkon Hikawa Shrine Festival in September.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available at the Renkon Hikawa Shrine. However, it is often full, especially during festivals and other busy times. If you are unable to find parking at the shrine, there are several public parking lots located nearby.

• Shrine parking lot: Small parking lot available, but often full
• Public parking lots: Several public parking lots located nearby

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years