Gleaming lights dance at Takagi Shrine’s festival
Basic Information
Takagi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nishi Kameari, Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Takami Musubi and Toyouke Omikami.
- Address: 4-15-20 Nishi Kameari, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0061, Japan
- Phone Number: 03-3611-3459
- Access: 5-minute walk from曳舟 Station on the Tobu Skytree Line or Keisei Oshiage Line, or a 7-minute walk from Oshiage Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line or Toei Asakusa Line.
- Festival Days: September 15th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Takagi Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on September 15th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The mikoshi procession is the main event of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The Takagi Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and colorful event, and it is a great opportunity to see the local community come together.
Lion Dance
The lion dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at festivals. The dance is performed by two people, one of whom wears a lion costume and the other of whom plays a drum. The lion dance is said to bring good luck and fortune, and it is a popular attraction at the Takagi Shrine Festival.
Taiko Drumming
Taiko drumming is a traditional Japanese form of drumming that is often performed at festivals. The drums are large and heavy, and they are played with wooden sticks. Taiko drumming is a powerful and energetic performance, and it is sure to get your blood pumping.
Food and Games
The Takagi Shrine Festival also features a variety of food and games. There are food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to modern festival favorites. There are also a variety of games for children and adults to enjoy.
Fireworks
The Takagi Shrine Festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they can be seen from all over the area. The fireworks display is a beautiful and fitting end to the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Takagi Shrine is dedicated to the deities Takami Musubi and Toyouke Omikami. Takami Musubi is the god of creation and the father of all gods, while Toyouke Omikami is the goddess of food and agriculture. Worshipping these deities is said to bring blessings of good fortune, prosperity, and a bountiful harvest.
Origin and History
The origins of Takagi Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally known as Dairokuten Shrine, after the Buddhist deity Dairokuten, who was worshipped at the site. However, after the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the government ordered the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, and the shrine was renamed Takagi Shrine.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Takagi Shrine Festival is held annually on September 15th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including a mikoshi procession, a lion dance, taiko drumming, and food and games.
- The shrine is located in a residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors when visiting.
- There is no parking lot at the shrine, so please use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Takagi Shrine. Please use public transportation or park in a nearby parking 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. |
