Enchanting shrine festival with a bridge to the goddess of water
Basic Information
Ichikishima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Zenpukuji, Suginami Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 3-18-1 Zenpukuji, Suginami-ku, Tokyo 166-0003
- Phone Number: 03-3399-8133 (Igus八幡宮)
- Access: 15-minute walk from Kami-Igusa Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: April 8th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Ichikishima Shrine Festival is a vibrant 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 Zenpukuji by local residents. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and streamers, and it is accompanied by music and dancing.
Taiko Drumming
Another popular attraction is the taiko drumming performance. Taiko drums are large, traditional Japanese drums that are played with wooden sticks. The taiko drummers perform a variety of rhythms and beats, creating a powerful and energetic atmosphere.
Sweet Sake Distribution
During the festival, visitors can also enjoy sweet sake, a traditional Japanese rice wine. The sweet sake is served from large wooden barrels, and it is a popular way to celebrate the festival.
Good Luck Charms and Snacks
There are also a variety of food and drink stalls at the festival, where visitors can purchase traditional Japanese snacks and souvenirs. Visitors can also purchase good luck charms and other items to bring home as a memento of the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Ichikishima Shrine is dedicated to the goddess Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto, who is associated with water and rain. She is also known as Benten, the goddess of good fortune and wealth. Visitors to the shrine pray for good luck, prosperity, and protection from water-related disasters.
Origin and History
The origins of Ichikishima Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 12th century. The shrine was originally located on an island in Zenpukuji Pond, but it was moved to its current location in the 17th century. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1935.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Ichikishima Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is located in a quiet residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Ichikishima Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 10 cars. The parking fee is 300 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. |
