Divine foxes dance under the moonlight
Basic Information
Matsubane Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Matsubara district of Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 6-9-19 Matsubara, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-0043
- Phone Number: 03-3327-1321
- Access: 3-minute walk from Higashi-Matsubara Station on the Keio Inokashira Line, or a 9-minute walk from Umegaoka Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line.
- Festival Days: April 27th (Sat), 2024 (Reiwa 6)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Matsubane Inari Shrine Festival is a vibrant and lively event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese entertainment and activities, including:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable Shinto shrine, and during the procession, it is carried through the streets of the Matsubara district by a team of people. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the deity of the shrine, and the procession is a way to show respect and gratitude to the deity.
Kagura Dance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto festivals. The dance is performed by a group of people, and it tells stories from Japanese mythology. The kagura dance at the Matsubane Inari Shrine Festival is a beautiful and graceful performance that is sure to impress visitors.
Bon Odori Dance
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed during the Obon festival. The dance is performed by a group of people, and it is a way to honor the spirits of the dead. The Bon Odori dance at the Matsubane Inari Shrine Festival is a lively and energetic performance that is sure to get everyone moving.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Matsubane Inari Shrine Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling a variety of delicious Japanese dishes. From traditional festival foods like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern dishes like crepes and popcorn, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the main events and attractions, there will also be a variety of games and activities for visitors to enjoy. These games and activities are a great way for people of all ages to have fun and experience Japanese culture.
Blessings and Deities
Matsubane Inari Shrine is dedicated to the deity Ukanomitama no Mikoto, the god of rice and agriculture. The shrine is also believed to offer blessings for business prosperity and good fortune.
Origin and History
The exact origins of Matsubane Inari Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded sometime during the Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Setagaya Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1935.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
When visiting Matsubane Inari Shrine, please be sure to observe the following tips and notes:
- The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
- Admission to the shrine is free.
- Photography is permitted within the shrine grounds.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Matsubane Inari Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate up to 10 cars. Parking is free of charge.
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. |