Hino Shrine Festival: A Mystical Night of Lights
Basic Information
Hino Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Eicho district of Hino City, Tokyo, Japan. It0052
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hino Shrine Festival is a two-day festival held annually on September 14th and 15th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on both days of the festival. The mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets of Hino by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and colorful sight.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. During the Hino Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held on both days of the festival. The performances are typically performed by young women, and they are a beautiful and graceful sight.
Food Stalls
There are a variety of food stalls set up at the festival, selling a variety of Japanese food and drinks. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). There are also a number of stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
On the evening of the second day of the festival, there is a fireworks display held at Hino Park. The fireworks display is a popular event, and it attracts people from all over the area. The fireworks are set off over the Tama River, and they provide a beautiful and spectacular sight.
Blessings and Deities
Hino Shrine is dedicated to four deities: Amatsumikaboshi, Takamusubi, Hino Muneyori, and Hino Munetada. These deities are all associated with good fortune and prosperity, and they are believed to bless those who visit the shrine with good luck in their lives.
- Amatsumikaboshi: God of the North Star and the night sky
- Takamusubi: God of creation and the beginning of the universe
- Hino Muneyori: Founder of the Hino clan and a powerful samurai warrior
- Hino Munetada: Son of Hino Muneyori and a skilled military commander
Origin and History
The origins of Hino Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the 11th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Hino City, but it was moved to its current location in 1605. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently in 1985.
- Founded: 11th century
- Original location: Different part of Hino City
- Moved to current location: 1605
- Rebuilt: Several times over the centuries, most recently in 1985
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Hino Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- There is a parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other special events.
- There are several restaurants and shops located near the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a parking lot available for visitors to Hino Shrine. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine.
- Location: A short walk from the shrine
- Hours: Same as shrine hours (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM)
- Fees: 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. |
