Gleaming shrine, autumn festival of lights
Basic Information
Here’s an overview of the 2024 Suehiro Inari Shrine Minato Festival.
- Address: 1-4-6 Azabujuban, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3583-1128
- Access: 1-minute walk from Exit 7 of Azabujuban Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line)
- Festival Days: Mid-September (tentatively scheduled for September 14th and 15th, 2024)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The 2024 Suehiro Inari Shrine Minato Festival promises a vibrant and lively atmosphere with various events and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the Mikoshi Procession, where a portable shrine, or mikoshi, is carried through the streets surrounding the shrine. Participants clad in traditional attire parade the mikoshi, accompanied by lively music and cheers from the crowd. This procession is a spectacle of color, energy, and devotion.
Taiko Drum Performance
The festival also features a captivating Taiko Drum Performance, where skilled drummers showcase their talents with powerful and rhythmic beats. The thunderous sounds of the taiko drums fill the air, creating an electrifying atmosphere that captivates the audience.
Sweet Sake Distribution
Visitors to the festival can partake in the Sweet Sake Distribution, a delightful tradition where sweet sake, or amazake, is offered to attendees. This sweet and comforting beverage is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, and it is believed to bring happiness and good luck to those who partake in it.
Benefits and Deities of the Shrine
Suehiro Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the deity of rice, sake, tea, and fertility. Worshipping at this shrine is believed to bring blessings related to these aspects of life, including bountiful harvests, successful businesses, and harmonious relationships.
History and Origin of the Shrine
The history of Suehiro Inari Shrine dates back to the Keicho era (1596-1615), when it was first established. Over the years, the shrine has undergone several relocations and renovations, with its current location being designated in 1950. Despite these changes, the shrine has remained a significant spiritual and cultural landmark in the Azabujuban area.
Blessings and Deities
Suehiro Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the deity of rice, sake, tea, and fertility. Worshipping at this shrine is believed to bring blessings related to these aspects of life, including bountiful harvests, successful businesses, and harmonious relationships.
- Inari Okami: Deity of rice, sake, tea, and fertility
- Benefits of Worship: Bountiful harvests, successful businesses, harmonious relationships
Origin and History
The history of Suehiro Inari Shrine dates back to the Keicho era (1596-1615), when it was first established. Over the years, the shrine has undergone several relocations and renovations, with its current location being designated in 1950. Despite these changes, the shrine has remained a significant spiritual and cultural landmark in the Azabujuban area.
- Established: Keicho era (1596-1615)
- Relocations and Renovations: Multiple throughout history
- Current Location: Designated in 1950
- Significance: Spiritual and cultural landmark in Azabujuban
Tips and Notes for Visitors
To ensure a fulfilling and respectful visit to Suehiro Inari Shrine, here are some tips and notes for visitors:
- Proper Attire: Dress respectfully, avoiding overly casual or revealing clothing.
- Offerings: If you wish to make an offering, monetary donations are customary.
- Photography: Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but avoid using flash or disturbing other visitors.
- Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful and solemn demeanor while visiting the shrine.
- Festivals and Events: Check the shrine’s website or local resources for information on upcoming festivals and events.
Parking Information
For those arriving by car, Suehiro Inari Shrine offers limited parking spaces on a first-come, first-served basis. Alternatively, there are several nearby public parking lots within walking distance of the shrine.
- On-Site Parking: Limited spaces available
- Public Parking Lots: Nearby options within walking distance
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. |
