Divine illumination at Hachiman Shrine

Basic Information

Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 1-25-9 Nagasaki, Toshima-ku, Tokyo 171-0033, Japan
• Phone Number: 03-3971-8649
• Access: 5-minute walk from Omokagebashi Station on the Toden Arakawa Line
• Festival Days: September 16th (Sat) and 17th (Sun), 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Hachiman Shrine Festival is a two-day annual event that takes place on September 16th and 17th in 2024. 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. During the procession, a portable shrine (mikoshi) 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 the procession is a way to show respect to the deity and to pray for good fortune.

獅子舞 (Lion Dance)

Another popular attraction at the festival is the獅子舞 (lion dance). The lion dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at festivals and other special events. The dance is performed by two people, one wearing a lion head and the other wearing a lion body. The lion dance is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Taiko Drumming

Taiko drumming is a type of Japanese drumming that is often performed at festivals and other events. The taiko drums are large, cylindrical drums that are played with wooden sticks. The taiko drumming at the Hachiman Shrine Festival is sure to get your blood pumping and add to the festive atmosphere.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Hachiman Shrine Festival, you’ll find a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls).

Blessings and Deities

Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and archery. Hachiman is one of the most important deities in the Shinto religion, and he is worshipped at shrines all over Japan. Hachiman is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to his worshippers, and he is often invoked for protection in battle.

Origin and History

The origins of Hachiman Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the 17th century. The shrine was originally a small shrine, but it was expanded and renovated in the 19th century. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1945, but it was rebuilt in 1951.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Hachiman 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 museum on the shrine grounds that displays artifacts related to the history of the shrine.
• The shrine is a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies.
• There are several restaurants and shops in the area surrounding the shrine.

Parking Information

There is no parking lot at Hachiman Shrine, but there are several public parking lots nearby.

• The closest parking lot is the Toshima Ward Public Parking Lot, which is located a 5-minute walk from the shrine.
• The parking lot is open 24 hours a day, and the parking fee is 100 yen per hour.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years