Enchanting lights illuminate the night at Ayase Shrine
Basic Information
Ayase Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Adachi Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and the goddess Omodaru-no-Kami.
- Address: 1-34-26 Ayase, Adachi-ku, Tokyo 120-0005
- Phone Number: 03-3602-3415
- Access: 6-minute walk from Ayase Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line or the JR Joban Line
- Festival Days: September 16th (Sat) and 17th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Ayase Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on September 16th and 17th. Two mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried through the streets of Ayase by teams of people. The mikoshi are decorated with colorful tapestries and streamers, and they are accompanied by music and dancing.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular attraction of 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 a circle, and it is accompanied by music and singing.
Food Stalls
There are also many food stalls at the festival, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup).
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children at the festival. These include goldfish scooping, ring toss, and face painting.
Blessings and Deities
Ayase Shrine is dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto and the goddess Omodaru-no-Kami. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is the god of storms, the sea, and agriculture, while Omodaru-no-Kami is the goddess of fertility and childbirth. Visitors to the shrine can pray for good luck in these areas, as well as for general good health and prosperity.
Origin and History
The origins of Ayase Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the 17th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Ayase, but it was moved to its current location in 1973. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 2000.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Ayase Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, here are a few tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as it can get very hot during the festival.
- Bring cash, as many of the food and game stalls do not accept credit cards.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during the mikoshi procession.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Ayase Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is located at the Ayase Civic Center, which is a 5-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. |