Divine illumination at Shirasama Shrine
Basic Information
Shirasama Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Suginami Ward of Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the goddess Inari, the deity of rice and prosperity.
- Address: 2-2-2 Narita Higashi, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 166-0015
- Phone Number: 03-3311-0105
- Access: 10-minute walk from Nishi-Eifuku Station on the Keio Inokashira Line
- Festival Days: September 8th (Sat) and 9th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Shirasama Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
Mikoshi Procession
A highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of the neighborhood. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and streamers, and it is carried by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a joyous occasion for the community.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular event at the festival is the Bon Odori dance. This traditional Japanese dance is performed by people of all ages, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture. The Bon Odori dance is typically performed in a circle, and it is accompanied by music and singing.
Food Stalls
There are also a number of food stalls at the festival, where visitors can enjoy a variety of Japanese dishes. Some of the most popular foods include yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), takoyaki (octopus balls), and taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet bean paste).
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children at the festival. These include things like goldfish scooping, ring toss, and face painting. The games and activities are a great way for children to have fun and enjoy the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Shirasama Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Inari, who is revered as the deity of rice and prosperity. Inari is one of the most popular deities in Japan, and she is often depicted as a young woman holding a sheaf of rice. She is also associated with foxes, which are considered to be her messengers.
- Deity: Inari, goddess of rice and prosperity
- Symbol: Fox
- Benefits of worship: Good harvest, prosperity in business, success in life
Origin and History
The origins of Shirasama Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 13th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Suginami Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1664. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1935.
- Founded: 13th century
- Moved to current location: 1664
- Rebuilt: 1935
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Shirasama Shrine:
- The shrine is open from 9am to 5pm every day.
- Admission is free.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There are several restaurants and shops in the area surrounding the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Shirasama Shrine. The parking lot is located next to the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars. The parking fee is 500 yen per day.
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. |