Enchanting Shrine Festival in Nerima
Basic Information
Asama Shrine is a shrine located in Nerima-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji.
- Address: 1-59-2 Kotakecho, Nerima-ku, Tokyo 176-0004
- Phone Number: 03-3995-1001
- Access: 1-minute walk from Egota Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line, Shin-Sakuradai Station on the Seibu Yurakucho Line, or Shin-Egota Station on the Toei Oedo Line
- Festival Days: September 15th (Sun), 2024 (Reiwa 6)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Asama Shrine Nerima-ku Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The mikoshi of Asama Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere in the streets of Nerima-ku.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Asama Shrine Nerima-ku Festival, there will be a kagura performance by a group of professional kagura dancers. The performance will tell the story of the shrine’s deity, Konohanasakuya-hime, and it will be a beautiful and moving experience for visitors.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Asama Shrine Nerima-ku Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of delicious Japanese dishes. From classic festival favorites like yakisoba and takoyaki to more unique dishes like deep-fried butter and chocolate-covered bananas, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the main events, there will also be a variety of games and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon art. There will also be a petting zoo where children can interact with friendly animals.
Fireworks Display
The festival will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks will be launched from a nearby park, and they will light up the night sky with their vibrant colors. This is a great way to end a fun and festive day at the Asama Shrine Nerima-ku Festival.
Blessings and Deities
Asama Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Konohanasakuya-hime, also known as Sengen-sama. She is the goddess of Mount Fuji, volcanoes, and safe childbirth. Konohanasakuya-hime is a popular deity in Japan, and she is revered for her beauty, kindness, and protective powers.
- Deity: Konohanasakuya-hime (Sengen-sama)
- Blessings: Safe childbirth, protection from volcanic eruptions, good luck in marriage and relationships
Origin and History
The origins of Asama Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 9th century. The shrine was originally located on the slopes of Mount Fuji, but it was moved to its current location in Nerima-ku in the 17th century. Asama Shrine has a long and rich history, and it has been visited by many famous people over the years, including the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Founded: 9th century
- Original location: Slopes of Mount Fuji
- Current location: Nerima-ku, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Asama Shrine:
- The shrine is open every day from 9am to 5pm.
- Admission is free.
- There is a large parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There are several restaurants and shops located near the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a large parking lot available for visitors to Asama Shrine. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine, and it is free of charge.
- Location: A short walk from the shrine
- Cost: 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. |
