Gleaming lights, Asahikawa’s winter nightscape
Basic Information
Kasuga Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kasugacho, Nerima Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
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Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kasuga Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on September 29th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Kasuga Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure that is decorated with colorful tapestries and carvings. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and festive event.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. The kagura performance at the Kasuga Shrine Festival is a sacred dance that is said to bring good luck and prosperity. The dancers wear colorful costumes and masks, and they perform a variety of dances to the accompaniment of music.
Food Stalls
There are a variety of food stalls at the Kasuga Shrine Festival, selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. There are also a number of games and activities for children, making it a fun event for the whole family.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors. The fireworks display is a fitting end to a day of celebration.
Blessings and Deities
Kasuga Shrine is dedicated to four deities: Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, Omononushi-no-Mikoto, Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto, and Iwai-nushi-no-Mikoto. These deities are said to bring blessings of good health, prosperity, and protection from evil.
- Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto: God of thunder and lightning, known for his strength and courage.
- Omononushi-no-Mikoto: God of medicine and healing, revered for his ability to cure illnesses and diseases.
- Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto: God of agriculture and industry, worshipped for his role in bringing prosperity and abundance.
- Iwai-nushi-no-Mikoto: God of festivals and celebrations, associated with joy, happiness, and good fortune.
Origin and History
The origins of Kasuga Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 10th century. The shrine was originally located in Kyoto, but it was moved to its current location in Nerima Ward, Tokyo, in the 16th century.
- Founded: 10th century
- Original location: Kyoto
- Current location: Nerima Ward, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Kasuga Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The festival is held on September 29th every year.
- The shrine is a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Kasuga Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars.
- Location: Behind the shrine
- Capacity: 20 cars
- Fee: Free
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. |
