Asahikawa’s winter nightscape adorned with fantastic lights

a shrine located in Senjuhashi-dori, Adachi Ward, Tokyo. It is situated within the premises of the Adachi Market, a central wholesale market specializing in fishery products.

• Address: 53 Senjuhashi-dori, Adachi Ward, Tokyo 120-0038
• Phone Number: Unavailable
• Access: Nearest station is Senju-Ohashi Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line. From there, take the Adachi Market Loop Bus and get off at the Adachi Market stop.
• Festival Days: October 17, 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Kanchō Jinja Reitaisai is a vibrant festival celebrated annually at the Kanchō Shrine in Adachi Ward, Tokyo. This festival is known for its lively atmosphere and various traditional events that attract visitors from near and far.

Mikoshi Togyo (Portable Shrine Procession)

One of the main highlights of the festival is the Mikoshi Togyo, a procession of portable shrines carried by participants through the streets surrounding the shrine. These elaborately decorated shrines are paraded around the neighborhood, accompanied by traditional music and lively chants.

• Overview: Procession of portable shrines through the streets
• Features: Elaborately decorated shrines, traditional music, and lively chants

Shishimai (Lion Dance)

Another popular attraction at the festival is the Shishimai, a traditional lion dance performed by skilled dancers. The lion dance is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits, and its energetic movements and colorful costumes captivate audiences of all ages.

• Overview: Traditional lion dance performed by skilled dancers
• Features: Believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits, energetic movements, and colorful costumes

Taiko Drumming

The festival also features energetic Taiko drumming performances. These powerful and rhythmic beats resonate through the festival grounds, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Visitors can witness the skill and dedication of the drummers as they showcase their talents.

• Overview: Energetic Taiko drumming performances
• Features: Powerful and rhythmic beats, skilled and dedicated drummers

Food Stalls and Games

The Kanchō Jinja Reitaisai is not just about traditional events; it also offers a variety of food stalls and games for visitors to enjoy. From classic festival fare like yakisoba and takoyaki to unique local delicacies, there’s something for everyone to savor. Additionally, there are various games and activities set up for children and adults alike, making it a fun-filled day out for the whole family.

• Overview: Variety of food stalls and games for visitors to enjoy
• Features: Classic festival fare, unique local delicacies, games and activities for all ages

Blessings and Deities

The Kanchō Jinja Reitaisai is dedicated to the deity known as Kanchō Daimyōjin, also revered as Ōkuninushi no Mikoto. This deity is widely worshipped in Japan as the god of good fortune,縁結び (enmusubi, matchmaking), and bountiful harvests. Devotees pray to Kanchō Daimyōjin for blessings in various aspects of life, including marriage, business prosperity, and overall well-being.

• Deity: Kanchō Daimyōjin (Ōkuninushi no Mikoto)
• Blessings: Good fortune, matchmaking, bountiful harvests, business prosperity, overall well-being

Origin and History

The origins of the Kanchō Jinja Reitaisai can be traced back to the Edo period. It is believed that the festival was first held in the early 18th century as a way to pray for good harvests and protection from natural disasters. Over the years, the festival has evolved and grown in popularity, becoming an important annual event for the local community and attracting visitors from neighboring areas as well.

• Origins: Early 18th century
• Purpose: Pray for good harvests and protection from natural disasters
• Evolution: Grew in popularity, became an important annual event

Tips and Notes for Visitors

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the Kanchō Jinja Reitaisai, here are some tips and notes for visitors:

• Respectful Attire: As with any religious festival in Japan, visitors are expected to dress respectfully. Avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing.
• Footwear: The festival grounds may be crowded and uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle or purchasing drinks from the festival stalls.
• Sun Protection: The festival takes place outdoors, so consider bringing a hat or umbrella for sun protection.
• Cash: Some food stalls and vendors may only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to have some on hand.
• Respectful Behavior: Remember to be respectful of the festival’s traditions and customs. Observe any instructions or guidelines provided by the festival organizers.

Parking Information

Unfortunately, there is no dedicated parking lot for the Kanchō Jinja Reitaisai. However, there are several public parking lots andコインパーキング (coin-operated parking lots) in the vicinity of the festival grounds. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a parking spot or consider using public transportation.

• Dedicated Parking: None
• Nearby Options: Public parking lots and coin-operated parking lots
• Recommendation: Arrive early or use public transportation

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years