Enchanting festival of lights in Tokyo’s vibrant district

Basic Information

Konpira Shrine is located in Taitō, Tokyo, Japan, and is classified as a village shrine in the modern shrine ranking system.

• Address: 2-24-1 Taitō, Taitō-ku, Tokyo
• Phone Number: N/A
• Access: 5-minute walk from TSUKUBA EXPRESS Asakusa Station
• Festival Days: 10th of every month

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

Konpira Shrine’s annual festival is held on the 10th of every month, with the largest festival taking place in October. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine 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 great honor.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Konpira Shrine festival, kagura is performed by a group of trained dancers and musicians, and it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who watch it.

Miko Mai Dance

Miko mai is a type of Japanese dance performed by shrine maidens. During the Konpira Shrine festival, miko mai is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in traditional clothing. The dance is believed to bring good luck and happiness to those who watch it.

Free Distribution of Amazake

Amazake is a sweet, non-alcoholic drink made from fermented rice. During the Konpira Shrine festival, amazake is distributed for free to visitors. Amazake is believed to have a number of health benefits, including boosting the immune system and improving digestion.

Blessings and Deities

Konpira Shrine is dedicated to the deity Konpira Daigongen, who is also known as Ōmonon deity of marriage and childbirth. Konpira Shrine is a popular destination for people who are seeking blessings for safe travels, good harvests, and happy marriages.

Origin and History

The origins of Konpira Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early 17th century by a samurai named Ikoma Kazumasa. Ikoma Kazumasa was a retainer of the Tokugawa shogunate, and he was granted a fief in the Taitō district of Edo (present-day Tokyo). Ikoma Kazumasa built Konpira Shrine as a guardian deity for his fief, and the shrine has been a popular place of worship ever since.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

When visiting Konpira Shrine, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Dress respectfully. Konpira Shrine is a sacred place, so it is important to dress respectfully when visiting. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other casual clothing.
• Be quiet and respectful. Konpira Shrine is a place of worship, so it is important to be quiet and respectful while visiting. This means avoiding loud talking and laughter, and taking care not to disturb other visitors.
• Follow the instructions of the shrine staff. The shrine staff is there to help visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Please follow their instructions and guidance.

Parking Information

There is no dedicated parking lot for Konpira Shrine. However, there are a number of coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding area. Please be aware that parking fees may apply.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years