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
| 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. |
