Divine illumination at Kishiwada Shrine

Basic Information

Kishiwada Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Toshima, Kita Ward, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 7-15-5 Toshima, Kita Ward, Tokyo 114-0003
• Phone Number: 03-3919-0562
• Access: 0 minutes from Toshima 7-chome Minami bus stop via the ハートアイランド行 bus from JR/Tokyo Metro南北線王子駅
• Festival Days: 3rd Saturday and Sunday of August (4th Saturday and Sunday if the month has a 5th week)

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Kishiwada 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 the second day of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Kishiwada Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and heavy, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and energetic event, and it is a great opportunity to see the local community come together to celebrate.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Kishiwada Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes. The kagura performance is a beautiful and graceful way to learn more about Japanese culture.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Kishiwada Shrine Festival, there are a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to modern festival favorites. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as Kishiwada ramen and Kishiwada udon.

Games and Activities

In addition to the main events, there are also a number of games and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon art.

Blessings and Deities

Kishiwada Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Isonokami no Mikoto, Ōyamatsumi no Mikoto, and Kukunochi no Mikoto. These deities are associated with water, mountains, and agriculture, respectively. Visitors to the shrine can pray for blessings related to these areas, such as a good harvest, safe travels, and protection from natural disasters.

Origin and History

The origins of Kishiwada Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Kita Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1659. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1935.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

• The Kishiwada Shrine Festival is held annually on the third Saturday and Sunday of August. The festival features a mikoshi procession, kagura performance, food stalls, and games and activities.
• The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.
• There is a small parking lot available at the shrine. However, it is often full during the festival. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.
• The shrine is located in a residential area. Visitors should be respectful of the neighbors and keep noise levels down.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available at Kishiwada Shrine. However, it is often full during the festival. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.

• Kishiwada Shrine Parking Lot
• Address: 7-15-5 Toshima, Kita Ward, Tokyo 114-0003
• Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Rates: 500 yen per day

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years