Gleaming lights, Asahikawa’s night festival

Basic Information

An overview of Funajinja Shrine.

• Address: 1-18-10 Higashikomahata, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
• Phone Number: 03-3611-2750
• Access: 7-minute walk from Tobu Skytree Line Higashimukojima Station
• Festival Days: June 7th, 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

Funajinja Shrine’s annual festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors.

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the district by a team of people. The mikoshi is decorated with elaborate carvings and ornaments, and it is believed that carrying it brings good luck and prosperity to the community.

• Content: A portable shrine is carried through the streets of the district.
• Features: Elaborately decorated mikoshi, lively atmosphere, and traditional music.

Yatai Village

During the festival, a yatai village is set up in the shrine grounds. Yatai are small stalls that sell a variety of food and drinks, as well as games and souvenirs. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese festival food such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and cotton candy.

• Content: A collection of stalls selling food, drinks, games, and souvenirs.
• Features: Variety of food and drinks, lively atmosphere, and a chance to experience Japanese festival culture.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling. During the festival, kagura performances are held in the shrine’s kagura殿 (hall). These performances are a beautiful and unique way to learn about Japanese culture and history.

• Content: A traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling.
• Features: Beautiful costumes, captivating performances, and a chance to learn about Japanese culture and history.

Blessings and Deities

Funajinja Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the most important deity in the Shinto pantheon. Amaterasu Omikami is revered for her role in bringing light and life to the world, and she is also associated with fertility, prosperity, and good fortune.

• 海上安全 (Maritime Safety): Funajinja Shrine is known for its association with maritime safety, and many people pray here for the safety of their loved ones who work at sea.
• 商売繁盛 (Prosperous Business): The shrine is also popular among business owners and entrepreneurs, who pray for success and prosperity in their ventures.
• 厄除け (厄除け): Funajinja Shrine is also believed to offer protection from bad luck and misfortune. Many people visit the shrine to pray for厄除け, especially during the Setsubun festival in February.

Origin and History

The exact origins of Funajinja Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the late Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in what is now Higashikomahata 2-chome, but it was moved to its current location in 1930 due to a redevelopment project.

• 創建 (Establishment): Late Heian period (794-1185)
• 旧称 (Former Name): Asahi Shinmeisha
• 遷座 (Relocation): 1930

Tips and Notes for Visitors

If you plan to visit Funajinja Shrine, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• The shrine is located in a residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors.
• There is no parking lot at the shrine, so please use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.
• The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• The annual festival is held on June 7th, and it features a mikoshi procession, a yatai village, and kagura performances.

Parking Information

There is no parking lot at Funajinja Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.

• There are several coin-operated parking lots within walking distance of the shrine.
• The closest parking lot is located at the Higashimukojima Station, which is a 7-minute walk from the shrine.

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