Enchanting shrine festival in Tokyo, a fusion of tradition and vibrancy.
Basic Information
Hamacho Shrine is a historical shrine with over 400 years of history, enshrining Inari Okami as its main deity. It is located in the Nihonbashi Hamacho area of Chuo Ward, Tokyo, and is known for its lively annual festival.
- Address: 3-14-12 Nihonbashi Hamacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3666-7498
- Access: 3-minute walk from Hamacho Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: May 16th, October 19th, and 20th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hamacho Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment and activities, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the Nihonbashi Hamacho area. The mikoshi is decorated with elaborate carvings and ornaments, and it is carried by a team of people who chant and dance as they make their way through the streets. The procession is a lively and festive event that draws large crowds of spectators.
Yatai Village
During the festival, a yatai village is set up in the grounds of the shrine. Yatai are small stalls that sell a variety of food and drinks, including traditional Japanese dishes such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and okonomiyaki. There are also games and activities for children, making the yatai village a fun and lively place for people of all ages.
Lucky Draw
A lucky draw is also held during the festival, where visitors can win prizes such as gift certificates, household appliances, and even cash. The lucky draw is a popular event that adds to the excitement of the festival.
Lion Dance
A lion dance is also performed during the festival. The lion dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is said to bring good luck and fortune. The lion dance is performed by two people, one who wears a lion costume and the other who plays the drums. The lion dance is a lively and entertaining performance that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Benefits and Deities
The Hamacho Shrine Festival is believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who attend. The shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and prosperity. Inari Okami is a popular deity in Japan, and many people visit the shrine to pray for good luck in business, good harvests, and family happiness.
Blessings and Deities
The Hamacho Shrine Festival is believed to bring good luck and fortune to those who attend. The shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and prosperity. Inari Okami is a popular deity in Japan, and many people visit the shrine to pray for good luck in business, good harvests, and family happiness.
- Inari Okami: God of rice and prosperity
- Fukurokuju: God of longevity, wealth, and wisdom
- Benzaiten: Goddess of wealth, music, and the arts
Origin and History
The Hamacho Shrine has a long and rich history. It was first established in the Tenmei era (1781-1789) as a guardian shrine for the Shimazu clan’s residence. The shrine was later renamed Hamacho Shrine after the area in which it is located. The shrine was destroyed by fire during the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and again during the air raids of World War II. It was rebuilt in 1953 and has been a popular place of worship ever since.
- Established: Tenmei era (1781-1789)
- Rebuilt: 1953
- Location: Nihonbashi Hamacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you are planning to visit the Hamacho Shrine Festival, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:
- The festival is held on May 16th, October 19th, and 20th, 2024.
- The shrine is located at 3-14-12 Nihonbashi Hamacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo.
- The festival is open to the public and free to attend.
- The festival features a variety of events and activities, including a mikoshi procession, a yatai village, a lucky draw, and a lion dance.
- The shrine is a popular tourist destination, so it is recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Parking Information
There is no dedicated parking lot for the Hamacho Shrine. However, there are several coin-operated parking lots in the surrounding area.
- Hamacho Parking Lot: 1-10-1 Nihonbashi Hamacho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Nihonbashi Parking Lot: 2-1-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
- Mitsui’s Parking Lot: 3-2-1 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
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. |
