Enchanting shrine festival with a 300-meter parade.
Basic Information
Here’s some basic information about the festival.
- Name:
- Location:
- Address:
- Date:
- Access:
Hie Shrine Festival
Hie Shrine, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo
2-10-5 Nagatacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
June 7-17, 2024
5-minute walk from Tameike-sanno Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line or Namboku Line
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hie Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. Here are some of the main events and attractions of the festival:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. On the second Saturday and Sunday of the festival, a total of 30 to 40 mikoshi (portable shrines) are carried through the streets of Edogawa-ku. The mikoshi are decorated with elaborate carvings and ornaments, and they are carried by teams of people. The procession is a lively and colorful sight, and it’s a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and tradition.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Hie Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held on the shrine grounds. The performances are beautiful and graceful, and they offer a glimpse into Japanese history and culture.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Hie Shrine Festival, there are many food stalls selling a variety of delicious Japanese dishes. You can find everything from traditional festival foods like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern dishes like crepes and ice cream. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura performances, and food stalls, there are also a number of games and activities for visitors to enjoy at the Hie Shrine Festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon art. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at the Hie Shrine Festival!
Blessings and Deities
The Hie Shrine Festival is dedicated to the deity Oyamakui-no-Kami, who is the god of mountains and agriculture. Oyamakui-no-Kami is said to bring blessings of good harvest, prosperity, and protection from natural disasters. Visitors to the festival can pray to Oyamakui-no-Kami for these blessings.
Origin and History
The Hie Shrine Festival has a long history, dating back to the Edo period. It is said that the festival was first held in 1614, when the local people prayed to Oyamakui-no-Kami for protection from a plague. The festival has been held every year since then, and it has become one of the most popular festivals in Edogawa-ku.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Hie Shrine Festival:
- The festival is very popular, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the sights and sounds of the festival.
- Be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
- Have fun!
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Hie Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in nearby 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. |
