Divine illumination at Tenso Shrine

Basic Information

Tenso Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Minami-Ogikubo, Suginami Ward, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 2-37-22 Minami-Ogikubo, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 166-0003
• Phone Number: 03-3311-4077
• Access: 3-minute walk from Tozai Line, Tokyo Metro, Higashi-Ogikubo Station
• Festival Days: September 16th, 2024

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

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

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 mikoshi of Tenso Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and colorful event, and it is a great opportunity to experience the traditional culture of Japan.

Kagura Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed at Shinto shrines. During the Tenso Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in elaborate costumes. The kagura performance is a beautiful and graceful sight, and it is a great way to learn about Japanese culture.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Tenso Shrine Festival, there are a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of delicious treats. From traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern fare like crepes and hot dogs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Games and Activities

In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura performance, and food stalls, the Tenso Shrine Festival also features a variety of games and activities for people of all ages. 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 also a petting zoo where children can interact with friendly animals.

Blessings and Deities

Tenso Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the most important deity in the Shinto religion. Amaterasu Omikami is said to be the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family, and she is revered as a symbol of light, warmth, and life. Worshippers at Tenso Shrine pray for blessings such as good health, prosperity, and success in their studies or careers.

Origin and History

The origins of Tenso Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the late Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Suginami Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1663. Tenso Shrine has been a popular place of worship for centuries, and it continues to attract many visitors today.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

If you are planning to visit Tenso Shrine during the festival, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:

• The festival is held on September 16th, 2024.
• The festival is a popular event, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds.
• There will be a variety of food stalls and games at the festival, so bring some cash to enjoy the festivities.
• The shrine is located in a residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors.

Parking Information

There is no parking lot at Tenso Shrine, but there are several coin-operated parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is located about a 5-minute walk from the shrine.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years