Autumn colors and divine dance at Takeashita Inari Shrine
Basic Information
Takeashita Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nerima Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and sake.
- Address: 2-3-22 Sekimachi Minami, Nerima-ku, Tokyo 177-0053
- Phone Number: 0422-22-5327
- Access: 10-minute walk from Musashi-Sakai Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: September 15th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Takeashita Inari Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
The mikoshi procession is the highlight of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The mikoshi of Takeashita Inari Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people.
Lion Dance
The lion dance is another popular attraction at the festival. A team of dancers perform a traditional lion dance, which is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Food Stalls
A variety of food stalls are set up at the festival, selling a wide range of delicious Japanese food. Some of the most popular items include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup).
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children at the festival, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss. These games are a great way for kids to have fun and win prizes.
Blessings and Deities
Takeashita Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake. Inari is also associated with fertility, prosperity, and worldly success. The shrine is a popular destination for people who are praying for good fortune in business, good harvests, and safe childbirth.
Origin and History
The exact origins of Takeashita Inari Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the early 17th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Nerima Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1874. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1945, but it was rebuilt in 1950.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Takeashita Inari Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, here are a few tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring cash, as many of the food and game stalls do not accept credit cards.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during the mikoshi procession.
- If you are traveling with children, keep an eye on them at all times.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Takeashita Inari Shrine. However, there are a number of public parking lots in the area. The closest parking lot is located about a 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. |
