Vibrant hues illuminate the night, a spectacle not to miss.
Basic Information
Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Shinagawa ward of Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake, and is one of the most popular shrines in the city.
- Address: 3-7-15 Kita-Shinagawa, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-0001
- Phone Number: 03-3474-5575
- Access: A three-minute walk from Shin-馬場 Station on the Keikyu Line
- Festival Days: June 7th to 9th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Inari Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Inari Shrine mikoshi is particularly large and elaborate, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets of Shinagawa.
Lion Dance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the lion dance. The lion dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed by two people inside a lion costume. The lion dance is said to bring good luck and fortune, and it is a popular attraction for both children and adults.
Mochi Pounding
Mochi pounding is a traditional Japanese activity that is often done during festivals. At the Inari Shrine Festival, visitors can try their hand at mochi pounding and make their own mochi rice cakes. Mochi is a delicious and sticky rice cake that is often eaten with sweet or savory toppings.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Inari Shrine Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious foods while they enjoy the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake. Inari is one of the most popular deities in Japan, and is revered for bringing good fortune and prosperity. Inari is often depicted as a white fox, and foxes are considered to be Inari’s messengers.
- Deity: Inari, the Shinto deity of rice and sake
- Blessings: Good fortune, prosperity, success in business
- Symbol: White fox
Origin and History
The origins of Inari Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 17th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Shinagawa, but it was moved to its current location in 1872. Inari Shrine has been a popular place of worship for centuries, and it is especially popular among people who are seeking good fortune in business.
- Founded: 17th century
- Moved to current location: 1872
- Popularity: Popular among people seeking good fortune in business
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Inari Shrine:
- Dress respectfully: When visiting Inari Shrine, it is important to dress respectfully. This means avoiding shorts, tank tops, and other casual clothing.
- Wash your hands and mouth: Before entering the shrine, it is customary to wash your hands and mouth at the chozuya, a water purification basin.
- Offer a donation: It is customary to offer a donation to the shrine. The donation box is usually located near the entrance to the shrine.
- Pray to the deity: To pray to the deity, stand in front of the main shrine building and bow twice. Then, clap your hands twice and bow once more. Finally, make your wish or prayer.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Inari Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine.
- Public parking lot: Located a short walk from the shrine
- Fees: Vary depending on the parking lot
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. |
