Gleaming lights, vibrant festival
Basic Information
Discover the sacred charm of Mitake Shrine, a place of tranquility and rich history.
- Address: 2-12-11 Minami-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3471-5808
- Access: A short walk from Tennozu Isle Station on the Rinkai Line
- Festival Days: August 24th and 25th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
Mitake Shrine’s annual festival is a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and tradition, featuring a variety of events and attractions that draw visitors from near and far.
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the Mikoshi Procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets by local residents. The Mikoshi is believed to house the spirit of the deity enshrined at Mitake Shrine, and the procession is a way to pay respect and seek blessings.
- Overview: A lively parade featuring a portable shrine carried by local residents
- Significance: A way to honor the deity and seek blessings for the community
Traditional Performances
The festival also features a variety of traditional Japanese performances, including Kagura (sacred Shinto music and dance), Taiko drumming, and獅子舞 (lion dance). These performances are a chance to experience the rich cultural heritage of Japan and gain a deeper appreciation for its traditions.
- Overview: A showcase of traditional Japanese arts and performances
- Significance: An opportunity to immerse oneself in Japanese culture and history
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At Mitake Shrine’s festival, visitors can indulge in a variety of delicious Japanese street food, from takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) to kakigori (shaved ice with sweet syrup). These culinary delights are a great way to experience the flavors of Japan.
- Overview: A selection of Japanese street food stalls offering a variety of culinary delights
- Significance: A chance to sample the diverse flavors of Japanese cuisine
Blessings and Deities
Mitake Shrine is dedicated to the deities Ooyamaguchi no Mikoto and Kurainoshita no Mikoto, who are revered for their blessings of good fortune, prosperity, and protection.
- Ooyamaguchi no Mikoto: God of mountains, agriculture, and prosperity
- Kurainoshita no Mikoto: God of food, wealth, and commerce
Origin and History
The origins of Mitake Shrine are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have been established during the Heian period (794-1185). The shrine has a long and rich history, and it has been visited by many famous people throughout the centuries, including the samurai warlord Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Heian period (794-1185): Possible establishment of the shrine
- Tokugawa Ieyasu: Visited the shrine and donated a large sum of money
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Mitake Shrine:
- Respect the shrine’s sacred atmosphere and follow the rules and customs.
- Photography is allowed in most areas of the shrine, but please be respectful and avoid taking pictures of people without their permission.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to visit during the week or on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors, but it is often full. Public transportation or taxi is recommended.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Mitake Shrine, but it is often full, especially during festivals and events. It is recommended to use public transportation or taxi to get to the shrine.
- Parking lot capacity: Approximately 20 cars
- Parking fee: Free
- Hours of operation: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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. |
