Enchanting festival of lights in Asahikawa

Basic Information

Nagaura Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Sumida Ward, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 6-27-7 Higashimukojima, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 131-0032
• Phone Number: 03-3611-1511
• Access: 4-minute walk from Higashimukojima Station on the Tobu Skytree Line
• Festival Days: June 1st (Sat) – 2nd (Sun), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Nagaura Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on June 1st. The mikoshi, a portable shrine, is carried through the streets of Sumida Ward by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.

Yatai (Food Stalls)

During the festival, there are many yatai, or food stalls, set up around the shrine. These stalls sell a variety of traditional Japanese foods, such as yakitori (grilled chicken), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes). There are also many games and activities for children, making the festival a fun event for the whole family.

Kagura Performance

On the evening of June 1st, there is a kagura performance at the shrine. Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed to entertain the gods. The performance is very colorful and elaborate, and it is a great opportunity to learn more about Japanese culture.

Fireworks Display

The festival concludes with a fireworks display on the evening of June 2nd. The fireworks are launched from a barge in the Sumida River, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors. The fireworks display is a spectacular sight, and it is a fitting end to the festival.

Blessings and Deities

Nagaura Shrine is dedicated to the following deities:

• Ukanomitama no Kami: The deity of food and agriculture
• Kami Musubi no Kami: The deity of creation and fertility
• Toyokumono no Kami: The deity of wealth and prosperity

People visit the shrine to pray for good harvests, financial success, and happiness in their families.

Origin and History

The exact origins of Nagaura Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded over 300 years ago. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Sumida Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1872.

The shrine has a long history of serving the local community. In the past, it was a popular place for people to pray for rain during droughts. The shrine was also used as a place to hold community events and festivals.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Nagaura Shrine:

• The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Admission to the shrine is free.
• There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
• The shrine is a popular place for weddings and other ceremonies. If you are planning to visit the shrine during a special event, it is best to check the shrine’s website or call ahead to confirm the hours of operation.
• The shrine is located in a residential area. Please be respectful of the neighbors and keep noise levels to a minimum.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Nagaura Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 10 cars.

The parking lot is free to use, but it is on a first-come, first-served basis. If the parking lot is full, there are several other parking options available in the area.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years