Summer festival with portable shrine and lively stalls
Basic Information
Here’s an overview of the
- Address: 3-19-32 Shinkoiwa, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
- Festival Days: June 28th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Yasaka Jinja Festival is a lively summer festival held annually on June 28th. Locals and visitors gather to participate in various events and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the district. The procession is accompanied by lively music and energetic shouts, creating an exciting and vibrant atmosphere.
- Overview: A parade of a portable shrine through the streets
- Features: Lively music, energetic shouts, and a festive atmosphere
Stalls and Food
During the festival, numerous stalls line the streets, offering a variety of food and traditional Japanese snacks. Visitors can enjoy classic festival treats like takoyaki, yakisoba, and cotton candy, as well as local specialties.
- Overview: A variety of food and traditional Japanese snacks
- Features: Classic festival treats and local specialties
Cultural Performances
The festival also features various cultural performances, such as kagura (traditional Shinto music and dance), taiko drumming, and bon odori (traditional Japanese folk dance). These performances provide a glimpse into Japanese culture and traditions.
- Overview: A variety of cultural performances
- Features: Kagura, taiko drumming, and bon odori
Blessings and Deities
Yasaka Jinja is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the Shinto god of wind, sea, and storms. He is also known for his role in slaying the eight-headed serpent, Yamata no Orochi, and rescuing the maiden Kushinada-hime. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is revered for his bravery, strength, and protective powers.
- Deity: Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Associations: Wind, sea, storms, bravery, strength, protection
- Benefits: Protection from evil, success in business, good fortune in fishing and agriculture
Origin and History
The origins of Yasaka Jinja can be traced back to the early Edo period. In 1666, a group of farmers from the village of Uekomachi, led by a man named Maruko Saneyoshi, enshrined Susanoo-no-Mikoto in a small shrine. Over the years, the shrine grew in popularity and became a center of worship for the local community.
- Founder: Maruko Saneyoshi
- Year of Establishment: 1666
- Original Location: Uekomachi Village
- Current Location: 3-19-32 Shinkoiwa, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you plan to visit Yasaka Jinja during the festival, here are a few tips to make your experience more enjoyable:
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
- Enjoy the festival and all it has to offer!
Parking Information
There is limited parking available near Yasaka Jinja. If you are driving, it is recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot and walk to the shrine.
- Limited parking available near the shrine
- Consider using public transportation or parking in a nearby lot
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. |
