Enchanting shrine festival lights up the night
Basic Information
Asama Shrine is a shrine located in Hanabata 5-chome, Adachi-ku, Tokyo,
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Asama Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Children’s Mikoshi and曳太鼓 Procession
On July 1st, children from the local community gather to carry a small mikoshi (portable shrine) and曳太鼓 (large drums) through the streets. This procession is a joyous and energetic display of the children’s enthusiasm for the festival.
Mikoshi and O-mikoshi Procession
On July 2nd, the main mikoshi and O-mikoshi (larger portable shrines) are carried through the streets by teams of people. This is a solemn and impressive sight, and it is one of the highlights of the festival.
Bon Odori Dance
Throughout the festival, there are several opportunities for visitors to participate in Bon Odori, a traditional Japanese folk dance. This is a great way to experience Japanese culture and have some fun at the same time.
Food and Games
There are also many food stalls and games at the festival, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can sample a variety of delicious Japanese foods, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup). There are also games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping for children and adults alike.
Blessings and Deities
Asama Shrine is dedicated to the deity Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mount Fuji and the personification of delicate beauty and grace. She is also associated with safe childbirth and prosperous marriages.
- Deity: Konohanasakuya-hime
- Blessings: Safe childbirth, prosperous marriages, delicate beauty, grace
Origin and History
The origins of Asama Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located on the banks of the Ayase River, but it was moved to its current location in the 16th century.
- Founded: Early Heian period (794-1185)
- Original location: Banks of the Ayase River
- Current location: Hanabata 5-chome, Adachi-ku, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Asama Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The festival is held on July 1st and 2nd each year.
- During the festival, there is a mikoshi procession, a Bon Odori dance, and various food and game stalls.
- The shrine is a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Asama Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby.
- Coin-operated parking lot 1: 5-minute walk from the shrine
- Coin-operated parking lot 2: 10-minute walk from the shrine
- Coin-operated parking lot 3: 15-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. |
