Enchanting shrine festival in Edogawa, Tokyo
Basic Information
Kumano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Edogawa Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 5-7-6 Edogawa, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo 134-0013
- Phone Number: 03-3679-0150
- Access: 13-minute walk from Ichinoe Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: July 19th (Sat), July 20th (Sun), 2024 (Reiwa 6)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kumano Shrine Edogawa Ward Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment and activities, including:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable Shinto shrine, and during the festival, it is carried through the streets of Edogawa Ward by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and colorful sight to behold.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the bon odori dance. Bon odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to honor the spirits of the dead. The dance is performed in a circle, and participants wear colorful happi coats and dance to the rhythm of drums and music.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Kumano Shrine Edogawa Ward Festival is no exception. There will be a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of Japanese dishes, from traditional favorites like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern dishes like okonomiyaki and taiyaki.
Games and Activities
There will also be a variety of games and activities for children and adults to enjoy at the festival. These may include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals.
Blessings and Deities
Kumano Shrine is dedicated to the deity Kumano Gongen, who is said to be a manifestation of the three deities Izanagi, Izanami, and Susanoo. Kumano Gongen is revered for its blessings of good fortune, prosperity, and protection from evil.
- Deity: Kumano Gongen
- Blessings: Good fortune, prosperity, protection from evil
Origin and History
The origins of Kumano Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in the village of Kumano, which was later incorporated into the city of Edogawa. The shrine was moved to its current location in 1935.
- Founded: Early Heian period (794-1185)
- Original location: Village of Kumano
- Current location: 5-7-6 Edogawa, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo 134-0013
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Kumano Shrine Edogawa Ward Festival:
- The festival is held on July 19th and 20th, 2024.
- The festival is open from 10am to 9pm.
- Admission to the festival is free.
- There will be a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of Japanese dishes.
- There will also be a variety of games and activities for children and adults to enjoy.
- The festival is a popular event, so it is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Kumano 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. |
