Gleaming lights and divine spirits: A sacred night in Nerima
Basic Information
Tensou Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nerima Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the mythical ancestress of the Imperial Family of Japan.
- Address: 2-4-3 Minami-Tokiwadai, Nerima-ku, Tokyo 174-0072
- Phone Number: 03-3956-6168
- Access: 5-minute walk from Musashi-Seki Station on the Tobu Tojo Line
- Festival Days: September 28th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
Tensou Shrine’s annual festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors from Nerima Ward and beyond. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment, food, and activities.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable Shinto shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Tensou Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto festivals. The kagura performance at Tensou Shrine is a beautiful and graceful display of Japanese culture.
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. The Bon Odori dance at Tensou Shrine is a lively and energetic performance that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Food and Games
In addition to the traditional entertainment, the festival also features a variety of food and games. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki, as well as a variety of games and activities for children.
Blessings and Deities
Tensou Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the mythical ancestress of the Imperial Family of Japan. Amaterasu Omikami is revered as the deity of light, warmth, and life, and is believed to bring blessings of good health, prosperity, and happiness.
- Deity: Amaterasu Omikami
- Blessings: Good health, prosperity, happiness
Origin and History
The origins of Tensou Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded during the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Nerima Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1624.
- Founded: Heian period (794-1185)
- Moved to current location: 1624
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Tensou Shrine is a popular destination for visitors, especially during its annual festival in September. Here are some tips and notes for visitors:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is little shade at the shrine.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs. For example, do not touch the sacred objects or enter the honden (main hall) without permission.
- The festival is a great time to experience Japanese culture, so be sure to check out the various food and game stalls.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Tensou Shrine, but there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is located about a 5-minute walk from the shrine.
- No parking lot at the shrine
- Coin-operated parking lots nearby
- Closest parking lot: 5-minute walk from 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. |
