Enchanting shrine festival in Tokyo, a fusion of tradition and vibrant culture

Basic Information

Motosu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Senju Motomachi, Adachi Ward, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 33-4 Senju Motomachi, Adachi-ku, Tokyo 120-0041
• Phone Number: 03-3888-0624
• Access: 21-minute walk from Kita-Senju Station on the JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and Hibiya Line, or Tsukuba Express
• Festival Days: September 13th (Fri), September 14th (Sat), September 15th (Sun), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Motosu 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, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Senju Motomachi. The mikoshi is decorated with elaborate carvings and ornaments, and it is carried by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling. During the Motosu Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held in the shrine’s main hall. The performances tell stories from Japanese mythology and folklore, and they are a beautiful and captivating sight to behold.

Bon Odori Dance

Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to honor the spirits of the dead. During the Motosu Shrine Festival, Bon Odori dances are held in the shrine’s courtyard. Visitors are welcome to join in the dancing, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture and traditions.

Food and Games

The Motosu Shrine Festival also features a variety of food and games. There are stalls selling traditional Japanese festival foods, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and cotton candy. There are also games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.

Blessings and Deities

Motosu Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami is the god of rice and agriculture, while Ukanomitama no Mikoto is the goddess of food and clothing. The shrine is also associated with the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan, and visitors can pray to the deity Shoulao for good luck and longevity.

Origin and History

The origins of Motosu Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded during the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Senju, but it was moved to its current location in 1930. The shrine was severely damaged during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, but it was later rebuilt.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

When visiting Motosu Shrine, it is important to be respectful of the shrine’s customs and traditions. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the main hall, and they should not touch any of the sacred objects. Photography is also prohibited inside the shrine.

Parking Information

There is no dedicated parking lot for Motosu Shrine, but there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby. Visitors can also use public transportation to reach the shrine. The nearest station is Kita-Senju Station on the JR Joban Line, Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line, and Hibiya Line, or Tsukuba Express. From the station, it is a 21-minute walk to the shrine.

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