Divine lights dance at the foot of Mt. Tsukuba
Basic Information
Someiyoshino, the origin of cherry blossoms, is enshrined in this shrine surrounded by cherry blossoms.
- Address: 6-11-5 Komagome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 170-0003
- Phone Number: 03-3918-1073
- Access: 8 minutes on foot from the north exit of JR Komagome Station
- Festival Days: Saturday and Sunday closest to September 15th
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Somei Yoshino cherry trees, the origin of cherry blossoms, are enshrined in this shrine surrounded by cherry blossoms. The annual festival is held on the Saturday and Sunday closest to September 15th, and various events are held.
Mikoshi Procession
The main event of the festival is the mikoshi procession. The mikoshi, a portable shrine, is carried through the streets of the neighborhood by parishioners, accompanied by lively music and dancing.
Lion Dance
A lion dance is also performed during the festival. The lion is believed to bring good luck and fortune, and its appearance is met with cheers from the crowd.
Food Stalls
A variety of food stalls are set up during the festival, offering a wide range of delicious treats. From traditional Japanese dishes to modern festival favorites, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
- Mikoshi Procession: A lively parade featuring a portable shrine carried through the streets.
- Lion Dance: A traditional dance performed by a lion costume to bring good luck and fortune.
- Food Stalls: A variety of food stalls offering a wide range of delicious treats, from traditional Japanese dishes to modern festival favorites.
Blessings and Deities
The enshrined deities at Somei Inari Shrine are Ukemochi no Mikoto, the god of food, and Ooyamagui no Mikoto, the god of mountains. The shrine is believed to bring blessings of good harvest, prosperous business, family safety, and warding off evil.
- Ukemochi no Mikoto: God of food and agriculture
- Ooyamagui no Mikoto: God of mountains and forests
- Blessings: Good harvest, prosperous business, family safety, warding off evil
Origin and History
The exact date of Somei Inari Shrine’s establishment is unknown, but it is believed to have been founded sometime before the Enpo era (1673-1681). The shrine was originally a branch shrine of Nishifuku-ji Temple, but it became independent during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Somei Inari Shrine is famous as the birthplace of the Somei Yoshino cherry tree, which is the most popular cherry tree variety in Japan. The shrine grounds are home to many Somei Yoshino cherry trees, which create a beautiful display of blossoms in the spring.
- Founded: Before the Enpo era (1673-1681)
- Formerly a branch shrine of Nishifuku-ji Temple
- Became independent during the Meiji era (1868-1912)
- Birthplace of the Somei Yoshino cherry tree
Tips and Notes for Visitors
When visiting Somei Inari Shrine, please be sure to observe the following rules and guidelines:
- Remove your shoes before entering the main shrine building.
- When praying, bow twice, clap your hands twice, and then bow once again.
- Do not touch or lean on the shrine’s sacred objects.
- Be respectful of other visitors and maintain a quiet atmosphere.
Parking Information
There is no dedicated parking lot at Somei Inari Shrine. Visitors are advised to use nearby coin-operated parking lots.
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. |
