Gleaming lanterns illuminate the night
Basic Information
Konpira Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Chuo Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture, Japan.
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Konpira Shrine Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. Here are some of the main events and attractions of the festival:
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 group of people. The Konpira Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a festive and joyous occasion.
Kagura Dance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Konpira Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes. The dance is graceful and elegant, and it is a beautiful sight to see.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! During the Konpira Shrine Festival, there are many food stalls that sell a variety of delicious Japanese dishes. You can find everything from yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to takoyaki (octopus balls) to taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste). There is something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura dance, and food stalls, there are also a number of games and activities for visitors to enjoy at the Konpira Shrine Festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the Konpira Shrine Festival!
Blessings and Deities
Konpira Shrine is dedicated to the deity Omononushi no Mikoto, who is also known as Konpira-san. Omononushi no Mikoto is a god of seafaring, fishing, and agriculture. He is also said to be a protector of children and travelers. Visitors to the shrine pray for safety at sea, a bountiful harvest, and good luck in business.
- Omononushi no Mikoto: God of seafaring, fishing, agriculture, children, and travelers
- Benefits: Safety at sea, bountiful harvest, good luck in business
Origin and History
The origins of Konpira Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 17th century. The shrine was originally a small shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. However, in the 18th century, the shrine was rebuilt and dedicated to Omononushi no Mikoto. The shrine quickly became popular, and it was visited by many people, including sailors, fishermen, and farmers.
- Founded: 17th century
- Originally dedicated to: Inari, god of rice
- Rebuilt and dedicated to Omononushi no Mikoto: 18th century
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Konpira Shrine:
- Dress respectfully: Konpira Shrine is a sacred place, so it is important to dress respectfully. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other casual clothing.
- Be quiet and respectful: Konpira Shrine is a place of worship, so it is important to be quiet and respectful. This means avoiding loud talking and laughter.
- Take your time: Konpira Shrine is a large and beautiful shrine, so it is worth taking your time to explore it. Be sure to visit the main shrine building, the honden, as well as the other buildings and gardens on the shrine grounds.
Parking Information
There is a parking lot available for visitors to Konpira Shrine. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine. There is a fee to park in the lot.
- Location: A short walk from the shrine
- Fee: Yes
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. |
