Enchanting melodies and vibrant dance at Machida’s summer festival
Basic Information
Yasaha Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kisochō, Machida, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 1-45-13 Kisochō, Machida, Tokyo
- Phone Number: N/A
- Access: 10-minute walk from Furu淵 Station on the Yokohama Line
- Festival Days: N/A
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Yasaha Shrine in Machida, Tokyo, holds an annual festival that showcases traditional Japanese culture and entertainment. The festival features various events and attractions that draw visitors from near and far.
Kagura Performance
One of the main highlights of the festival is the Kagura performance. Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling. During the festival, Kagura performers don elaborate costumes and masks and enact stories from Japanese mythology and folklore.
- Overview: Traditional Japanese performing art combining music, dance, and storytelling
- Features: Enchanting performances of Japanese myths and legends by skilled Kagura performers
Mikoshi Procession
Another popular attraction is the Mikoshi procession. A Mikoshi is a portable shrine carried by multiple people during Japanese festivals. During the Yasaha Shrine festival, the Mikoshi is paraded through the streets of Machida, accompanied by traditional music and lively dancing.
- Overview: Parade of a portable shrine through the streets of Machida
- Features: Colorful and energetic procession with traditional music and dancing
Food Stalls
The festival also features a variety of food stalls offering a wide range of Japanese delicacies. Visitors can indulge in traditional festival foods such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup). There are also stalls selling local specialties and souvenirs.
- Overview: Assortment of food stalls offering traditional Japanese festival foods and local specialties
- Features: Opportunity to sample a variety of delicious Japanese dishes and treats
Blessings and Deities
Yasaha Shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful deity in Japanese mythology known for his bravery and strength. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is revered as the god of the sea, storms, and agriculture. He is also associated with protection and warding off evil spirits.
- Deity: Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Domains: Sea, storms, agriculture, protection, and warding off evil spirits
Origin and History
The origins of Yasaha Shrine are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been established during the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine has a long and rich history, and it has been revered by the local community for centuries.
- Establishment: Kamakura period (1185-1333)
- History: Long and rich history, revered by the local community for centuries
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you plan to visit Yasaha Shrine during the festival, here are a few tips and notes to make your experience more enjoyable:
- Dress comfortably and appropriately. The festival involves walking and standing for extended periods.
- Bring cash. Many food stalls and vendors at the festival may not accept credit cards.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the Kagura performance and Mikoshi procession.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs. Follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the shrine staff.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at Yasaha Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots and walk to the shrine.
- Parking: Limited parking available at the shrine
- Recommendation: Use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots and walk to the shrine
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. |