Enchanting melodies and vibrant hues converge at Toyoda Shrine
Basic Information
Toyoda Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Higashi-Mizue, Edogawa Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Amaterasu Omikami and Take-mikazuchi-no-mikoto.
- Address: 1-18-1 Higashi-Mizue, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo 132-0031
- Phone Number: 03-3672-3222
- Access: 6-minute walk from Mizue Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: August 6th (Sun) and August 7th (Mon), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Toyoda Shrine 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 the neighborhood by a team of people. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the deity of the shrine, and carrying it is seen as a way to bring good luck and prosperity to the community.
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 taiko drums.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Toyoda Shrine Festival, you can find a variety of delicious Japanese foods to try, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup). There are also many stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they light up the night sky with their vibrant colors and patterns.
Blessings and Deities
Toyoda Shrine is dedicated to the deities Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess, and Take-mikazuchi-no-mikoto, the god of thunder and lightning. Amaterasu Omikami is the most important deity in the Shinto religion, and she is believed to be the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family. Take-mikazuchi-no-mikoto is a powerful warrior god who is often invoked for protection against evil.
- Amaterasu Omikami: Sun goddess and ancestor of the Japanese imperial family
- Take-mikazuchi-no-mikoto: God of thunder and lightning, invoked for protection against evil
Origin and History
The origins of Toyoda Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 16th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Edogawa Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1935. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1945 during World War II, but it was rebuilt in 1951.
- Founded in the 16th century
- Originally located in a different part of Edogawa Ward
- Moved to current location in 1935
- Destroyed by fire in 1945, rebuilt in 1951
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Toyoda Shrine Festival:
- The festival is held on August 6th and 7th, 2024.
- The festival is free to attend.
- The festival is a popular event, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds.
- There are a variety of food and drink stalls at the festival.
- There is a fireworks display on the evening of August 7th.
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Toyoda Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.
- Limited parking available at the shrine
- 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. |