Autumn colors and divine processions at Toshikita Kitano Shrine
Basic Information
Toshida Kitano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Higashi Oizumi, Nerima Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is commonly known as “Oizumi Tenjin”.
- Address: 4-25-4 Higashi Oizumi, Nerima-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3922-6248
- Access: 3-minute walk from the north exit of Oizumi Gakuen Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- Festival Days: Second Sunday of October
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Toshikita Kitano 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
A mikoshi (portable shrine) is carried through the streets of the neighborhood, accompanied by music and dancing. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the deity of the shrine, and carrying it is considered a great honor.
Lion Dance
A traditional lion dance is performed by a group of dancers wearing lion costumes. The dance is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Taiko Drumming
A group of taiko drummers perform traditional Japanese drumming. The powerful rhythms of the taiko drums create an exciting and energetic atmosphere.
Food Stalls
A variety of food stalls line the streets, selling traditional Japanese festival foods such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and cotton candy. There are also many games and activities for children to enjoy.
Benefits and Deities
Toshida Kitano Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician who is revered as the god of learning and calligraphy. People pray to him for success in their studies and careers.
History and Origin
The origins of Toshikita Kitano Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally called “Toshida Tenjinja,” but it was renamed “Toshida Kitano Shrine” in 1912.
Tips for Visitors
If you are planning to attend the Toshikita Kitano Shrine 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 stalls and games only accept cash.
- Arrive early to get a good spot to watch the mikoshi procession and lion dance.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Toshikita Kitano Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding area.
Blessings and Deities
Toshida Kitano Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a scholar and politician who is revered as the god of learning and calligraphy. People pray to him for success in their studies and careers.
- Deity: Sugawara no Michizane
- Benefits: Success in studies and careers
Origin and History
The origins of Toshikita Kitano Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally called “Toshida Tenjinja,” but it was renamed “Toshida Kitano Shrine” in 1912.
- Founded: Early Edo period (1603-1868)
- Original name: Toshida Tenjinja
- Renamed: 1912
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you are planning to attend the Toshikita Kitano Shrine 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 stalls and games only accept cash.
- Arrive early to get a good spot to watch the mikoshi procession and lion dance.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Toshikita Kitano Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding area.
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. |
