Enchanting lights illuminate the night at the Enodai Inari Shrine Festival.
Basic Information
Enodai Inari Shrine is a shrine located in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Ukanomitama, the god of food and agriculture.
- Address: 5-4-16 Gyohei, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3622-0753
- Access: 7-minute walk from Oshiage Station on the Toei Asakusa Line or Tobu Skytree Line, or a 10-minute walk from Tokyo Skytree Station on the Toei Oedo Line
- Festival Days: September 17th and 18th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Enodai Inari Shrine Festival is a two-day festival held annually on September 17th and 18th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on both days of the festival. The mikoshi, a portable shrine, is carried through the streets of the neighborhood by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and colorful sight.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the bon odori dance. The 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 anyone can join in. It is a fun and festive way to experience Japanese culture.
Food Stalls
There are also a number of food stalls at the festival, selling a variety of Japanese street food. Some of the most popular items include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and kakigori (shaved ice). There are also a number of stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a fireworks display on the evening of September 18th. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they can be seen from all over the neighborhood. The fireworks display is a beautiful and fitting end to the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Enodai Inari Shrine is dedicated to the deity Ukanomitama, the god of food and agriculture. Ukanomitama is said to bring blessings of good harvests, bountiful catches of fish, and prosperity in business. The shrine is also believed to offer protection against fire and theft.
Origin and History
The origins of Enodai Inari Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded during the Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Sumida Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1872. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1945, but it was rebuilt in 1950.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Enodai Inari Shrine Festival is held annually on September 17th and 18th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including a mikoshi procession, a bon odori dance, food stalls, and a fireworks display.
- The shrine is open to visitors every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is free.
- The shrine is located in a residential neighborhood, so please be respectful of the local residents.
- There is no parking lot at the shrine, so visitors are advised to use public transportation.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Enodai Inari Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby public 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. |
