弦巻神社: A festival of lights and traditions

Basic Information

Tsurumaki Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Ukanomitama-no-kami, Ojin Tenno, and Sugawara-no-Michizane.

• Address: 3-18-22 Tsurumaki, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-0024
• Phone Number: 03-3420-0951
• Access: 10-minute walk from Sakurashinmachi Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line
• Festival Days: Third Sunday of October

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Tsurumaki Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on the third Sunday of October. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:

Mikoshi Procession

A mikoshi (portable shrine) is carried through the streets of the Tsurumaki neighborhood by local residents. 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 Performance

Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. The kagura performance at the Tsurumaki Shrine Festival is a highlight of the event, and it is a great opportunity to see this traditional art form.

Food Stalls

A variety of food stalls are set up at the festival, selling a variety of Japanese and international dishes. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from traditional Japanese street food to more modern fare.

Games and Activities

There are also a variety of games and activities for children and adults to enjoy at the festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals.

Fireworks Display

The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they can be seen from all over the Tsurumaki neighborhood.

Blessings and Deities

Tsurumaki Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Ukanomitama-no-kami, Ojin Tenno, and Sugawara-no-Michizane. Ukanomitama-no-kami is the deity of food and agriculture, Ojin Tenno is the deity of war and victory, and Sugawara-no-Michizane is the deity of learning and scholarship.

Visitors to the shrine can pray for blessings in these areas of their lives. For example, students often pray to Sugawara-no-Michizane for success in their studies, and farmers pray to Ukanomitama-no-kami for a bountiful harvest.

Origin and History

The origins of Tsurumaki Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Setagaya Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1916.

Tsurumaki Shrine has a long history of serving the local community. In the past, the shrine was used as a place for people to gather and celebrate festivals. It was also a place where people could come to pray for good luck and protection.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Tsurumaki Shrine:

• The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Admission to the shrine is free.
• There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
• The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
• Visitors are asked to be respectful of the shrine and its surroundings.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Tsurumaki Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars.

Please note that the parking lot is often full during popular times, such as weekends and holidays. If you are planning to visit the shrine during a busy time, you may want to consider taking public transportation or parking in a nearby parking garage.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years