Enchanting shrine festival in Tokyo, a fusion of tradition and modernity
Basic Information
Maekawa Shrine is a shrine located in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities.
- Address: 1-41-4 Edogawa, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo 132-0013
- Phone Number: 03-5243-0392
- Access: 17-minute walk from Mizue Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line, or 7-minute walk from Kamata Station on the Keisei Bus
- Festival Days: Dates to be announced
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Maekawa Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place in Edogawa-ku, Tokyo. The festival celebrates the shrine’s deities and features a variety of events and attractions.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by festival participants. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the shrine’s deities, and carrying it is considered a great honor.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Maekawa Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by local dancers and musicians. The performance is said to bring good luck and prosperity to the community.
Food Stalls
The festival also features a variety of food stalls selling traditional Japanese festival foods. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste).
Games and Activities
In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura performance, and food stalls, the festival also features a variety of games and activities for children and adults. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals.
Blessings and Deities
The Maekawa Shrine is dedicated to the deities Omoikane no Mikoto, Susa no O no Mikoto, and Toyouke no Omikami. Omoikane no Mikoto is the god of wisdom and intelligence, Susa no O no Mikoto is the god of the sea and storms, and Toyouke no Omikami is the goddess of food and agriculture.
- Omoikane no Mikoto: God of wisdom and intelligence
- Susa no O no Mikoto: God of the sea and storms
- Toyouke no Omikami: Goddess of food and agriculture
Origin and History
The exact origins of the Maekawa Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the 15th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Edogawa-ku, but it was moved to its current location in the 19th century.
- Founded: 15th century
- Original location: Different part of Edogawa-ku
- Current location: 19th century
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Maekawa Shrine is a popular destination for visitors, especially during the annual festival. Here are some tips and notes for visitors:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and decorations.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
- Enjoy the festival and all that it has to offer!
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Maekawa Shrine. Visitors are encouraged to use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots.
- Limited parking available at the shrine
- Use public transportation or park in nearby parking lots
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. |
