Enchanting shrine festival in Setagaya, Tokyo

Basic Information

Fukasawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Amaterasu Omikami, Ooyamaduhi no Mikoto, Yamatotakeru no Mikoto, Ukanomitama no Mikoto, and Hachiman Okami.

• Address: 5-11-1 Fukasawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0081
• Phone Number: 03-3701-8595
• Access: 3-minute walk from Fukasawa-sakaue bus stop, Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, or 3-minute walk from Fukasawa-sakaue bus stop, Tokyu Oimachi Line
• Festival Days: October 10th (Thursday), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Fukasawa Jinja Rei-sai is an annual festival held at Fukasawa Shrine in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo. The festival takes place on October 10th, 2024, and features a variety of events and attractions, including:

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the neighborhood. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and carried by teams of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and festive event.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling. During the Fukasawa Jinja Rei-sai, kagura performances are held at the shrine’s main hall. The performances are typically based on Japanese mythology and folklore, and they are a beautiful and captivating way to learn about Japanese culture.

Food Stalls

During the festival, there are a number of food stalls set up around the shrine. These stalls sell a variety of Japanese festival foods, such as yakitori, takoyaki, and cotton candy. There are also stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.

Bonfire

On the evening of the festival, a bonfire is lit at the shrine. The bonfire is a symbol of purification and renewal, and it is a beautiful sight to behold. People gather around the bonfire to pray for good luck and to enjoy the festival atmosphere.

Blessings and Deities

Fukasawa Shrine is dedicated to five deities:

• Amaterasu Omikami: The sun goddess and the most important deity in the Shinto pantheon
• Ooyamaduhi no Mikoto: The goddess of mountains and forests
• Yamatotakeru no Mikoto: A legendary prince and warrior
• Ukanomitama no Mikoto: The god of food and agriculture
• Hachiman Okami: The god of war and archery

These deities are believed to bring blessings such as good health, prosperity, and success to those who worship them.

Origin and History

The origins of Fukasawa Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 16th century. The shrine was originally known as Mishima Shrine, after the famous Mishima Shrine in Shizuoka Prefecture. In 1909, the shrine was renamed Fukasawa Shrine and several other local shrines were merged into it.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

• The Fukasawa Jinja Rei-sai is a popular festival, so it is important to arrive early to avoid crowds.
• There are a number of food stalls at the festival, so you can enjoy a variety of Japanese festival foods.
• The festival is held outdoors, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.
• There is a parking lot near the shrine, but it is limited. It is recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking garage.

Parking Information

There is a parking lot near Fukasawa Shrine, but it is limited. The parking lot is located on the north side of the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars. The parking fee is 500 yen per day.

If the parking lot is full, there are several other parking garages in the area. The closest parking garage is located about a 5-minute walk from the shrine. The parking fee at the garage is 1,000 yen per day.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years