Enchanting shrine festival in Tokyo, a fusion of tradition and vibrancy
Basic Information
Hon sha Mishima Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in Taitō ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Ōyamazumi-no-Kami, the god of mountains and seas, and is considered to be the head shrine of over 3,000 Mishima shrines throughout Japan.
- Address: 4-9-1 Kotobuki, Taitō-ku, Tokyo 111-0042
- Phone Number: 03-3843-5284
- Access: 3-minute walk from Tawaramachi Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line
- Festival Days: June 15th and 16th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hon sha Mishima Jinja Festival is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The mikoshi of Hon sha Mishima Jinja is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a lively and festive atmosphere.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. During the Hon sha Mishima Jinja Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in elaborate costumes. The dance is graceful and beautiful, and it is a highlight of the festival.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Hon sha Mishima Jinja Festival, there are many stalls selling a variety of delicious foods, such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
The Hon sha Mishima Jinja Festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors. The fireworks display is a fitting end to a wonderful festival.
Blessings and Deities
Hon sha Mishima Jinja is dedicated to Ōyamazumi-no-Kami, the god of mountains and seas. Ōyamazumi-no-Kami is revered for its association with agriculture, fishing, navigation, brewing, and as a god of production and prosperity. It is also said to be served by three dragon messengers.
- Ōyamazumi-no-Kami: God of mountains and seas, agriculture, fishing, navigation, brewing, and production
- Three Dragon Messengers: Serve Ōyamazumi-no-Kami and bring blessings to the people
Origin and History
The origins of Hon sha Mishima Jinja are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 13th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Tokyo, but it was moved to its current location in the 17th century. Hon sha Mishima Jinja has a long and rich history, and it has been visited by many famous people over the years, including the Tokugawa shoguns.
- Founded: 13th century
- Moved to Current Location: 17th century
- Visited by Many Famous People: Including the Tokugawa shoguns
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Hon sha Mishima Jinja:
- Dress Code: There is no strict dress code, but it is considered respectful to dress modestly.
- Photography: Photography is allowed inside the shrine, but please be respectful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography.
- Offerings: You can make offerings to the gods at the shrine by placing a small donation in the offering box.
- Ema: You can also purchase ema (wooden plaques) at the shrine and write your wishes or prayers on them. The ema are then hung up in the shrine.
- Omamori: You can also purchase omamori (amulets) at the shrine. Omamori are believed to bring good luck and protection.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Hon sha Mishima Jinja, but there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is the Kotobuki Parking Lot, which is located a 3-minute walk from the shrine.
- Kotobuki Parking Lot: 3-minute walk from the shrine
- Other Public Parking Lots: Within walking distance of the shrine
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. |
