Gleaming lights dance in the night at Asahikawa’s winter festival

Basic Information

Here’s an overview of the 2024 Atago Jinja Hachioji festival.

• Address: 253 Horinouchi, Hachioji City, Tokyo
• Phone Number: N/A
• Access: 5-minute walk from Fureai Higashiryokudo bus stop or Miharashidai-mae bus stop via Keio Bus, or 27-minute walk from Keio Horinouchi Station, or 28-minute walk from Tama Monorail Otsuka-Teikyo Daigaku Station
• Festival Days: August 30th (Fri), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Atago Jinja Hachioji festival is a vibrant and lively event that offers a variety of attractions for visitors of all ages.

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 group of people. The mikoshi of Atago Jinja is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Kagura Performance

Another popular attraction at the festival is the kagura performance. Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed to entertain the gods and bring good luck. The kagura performance at Atago Jinja is performed by a group of skilled dancers, and it is a beautiful and mesmerizing sight to behold.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Atago Jinja festival is no exception. There will be a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of delicious Japanese dishes, from traditional favorites like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern dishes like crepes and popcorn. There will also be a beer garden where visitors can enjoy a cold drink and relax.

Bonfire

In the evening, a large bonfire is lit in the grounds of Atago Jinja. The bonfire is a symbol of purification and renewal, and it is a beautiful sight to see. Visitors can gather around the bonfire and enjoy the warmth and light, or they can take a walk through the festival grounds and enjoy the other attractions.

Blessings and Deities

Atago Jinja is dedicated to the deity Kagutsuchi-no-Kami, the god of fire. Kagutsuchi-no-Kami is said to be a fierce and powerful deity, but he is also revered as a protector and a bringer of good luck. Worshippers pray to Kagutsuchi-no-Kami for protection from fire and other disasters, as well as for success in business and good health.

Origin and History

The origins of Atago Jinja are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located on Mount Atago in Kyoto, but it was moved to its current location in Hachioji in the 16th century. Atago Jinja has been a popular shrine for centuries, and it has been visited by many famous people, including the samurai warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Atago Jinja:

• The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
• Admission is free.
• There is a large parking lot available for visitors.
• The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times if you are looking for a quiet experience.
• There are several restaurants and shops located near the shrine, so you can easily find a place to eat or buy souvenirs.

Parking Information

There is a large parking lot available for visitors to Atago Jinja. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine, and it is free of charge.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years