Enchanting Shrine Festival in Tokyo: Unveiling the Splendor of Tradition
Basic Information
- Address: 032
- Access: 9-minute walk from Nishi-Tokyo Bus, Shakujii Koen Station
- Festival Days: 2nd Saturday and Sunday of October
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Stone Sword Festival is a two-day annual festival held at the Shakujii Shrine in Nerima Ward, Tokyo. The festival celebrates the shrine’s enshrined deity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, and features various traditional events and performances.
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Shakujii by local residents. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the deity during the procession, and participants believe that being near it brings good luck and protection.
Lion Dance
Another popular attraction is the lion dance, performed by local children. The lion is a symbol of strength and courage in Japanese culture, and the dance is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
Children’s Mikoshi
Children also have their own mikoshi, which they carry around the shrine grounds. This is a fun and lively event that allows children to participate in the festival and learn about Japanese traditions.
Stalls and Games
The festival also features a variety of stalls selling food, drinks, and souvenirs. There are also games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
Blessings and Deities
The Shakujii Shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms, seas, and agriculture. He is also known as a fierce warrior and a protector of the weak. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is enshrined at the Shakujii Shrine along with his wife, Kushinada-hime, and his son, Okuninushi-no-Mikoto.
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto: God of storms, seas, and agriculture
- Kushinada-hime: Wife of Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Okuninushi-no-Mikoto: Son of Susanoo-no-Mikoto
Origin and History
The origins of the Shakujii Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 11th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Nerima Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1624.
- Founded: 11th century
- Moved to current location: 1624
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Shakujii Shrine is a popular destination for visitors, especially during the Stone Sword Festival in October. Here are some tips and notes for visitors:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and festival events.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
- If you are visiting during the Stone Sword Festival, be prepared for large crowds.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at the Shakujii Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby.
- No parking lot at the shrine
- Coin-operated parking lots nearby
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. |
