Enchanting shrine festival with a parade of portable shrines
Basic Information
Ohara Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake.
- Address: 2-29-21 Ohara, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-0041
- Phone Number: 03-3328-7537
- Access: 1-minute walk from Daitabashi Station on the Keio Line
- Festival Days: Second Sunday of September
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Ohara Inari 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
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 Ohara Inari Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. At the Ohara Inari Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in traditional costumes. The performance is both beautiful and awe-inspiring.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Ohara Inari Shrine Festival, there are a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. There is something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura performance, and food stalls, there are also a variety of games and activities for visitors to enjoy. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals.
Blessings and Deities
Ohara Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake. Inari is also known as the god of fertility, prosperity, and worldly success. Inari is often depicted as an old man with a long white beard, riding a white fox. Foxes are considered to be Inari’s messengers, and they are often seen at Inari shrines.
- Deity: Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake
- Blessings: Fertility, prosperity, worldly success
- Symbol: Fox
Origin and History
The origins of Ohara Inari Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 17th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Setagaya Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1932. Ohara Inari Shrine is a popular shrine among local residents, and it is also a popular tourist destination.
- Founded: 17th century
- Moved to current location: 1932
- Popularity: Popular among local residents and tourists
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Ohara Inari 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 at the shrine, but please be respectful of other visitors.
- Food and drink: There are a few food stalls near the shrine where you can buy snacks and drinks.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Ohara Inari Shrine, but there are a few public parking lots nearby.
- Public parking lot 1: Located a 5-minute walk from the shrine. Fee: 300 yen per hour.
- Public parking lot 2: Located a 10-minute walk from the shrine. Fee: 200 yen per hour.
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. |