Divine illumination at Fukushima Shrine
Basic Information
Fukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Akishima, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 1-12-6 Fukushima-cho, Akishima-shi, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 042-541-0046
- Access: 802 meters on foot from Higashi-Nakagami Station on the Seibu Haijima Line
- Festival Days: Third Sunday of August
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Fukushima Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on the third Sunday of August. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The Fukushima Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure that is decorated with colorful tapestries and carvings. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a lively and festive sight.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Fukushima Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by a group of young women who are dressed in colorful costumes. The dance is graceful and elegant, and it is a beautiful sight to behold.
Bon Odori Dance
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed during the Obon festival. Obon is a time when Japanese people remember their ancestors and honor the dead. During the Fukushima Shrine Festival, Bon Odori is performed by a group of people who are dressed in yukata, a traditional Japanese summer kimono. The dance is lively and upbeat, and it is a fun and festive way to celebrate the Obon festival.
Food Stalls
There are a variety of food stalls at the Fukushima Shrine Festival. These stalls sell a variety of Japanese foods, such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also a number of stalls that sell souvenirs and crafts.
Blessings and Deities
Fukushima Shrine is dedicated to the deity Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, a legendary Japanese prince who is said to have conquered eastern Japan. Yamato Takeru is revered as a god of war and victory, and he is also associated with agriculture and fertility. Visitors to Fukushima Shrine pray for success in battle, good harvests, and safe childbirth.
Origin and History
The origins of Fukushima Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the 16th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Akishima, but it was moved to its current location in 1874. Fukushima Shrine has been a popular place of worship for centuries, and it continues to attract many visitors today.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
- The Fukushima Shrine Festival is held on the third Sunday of August each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including a mikoshi procession, kagura performance, and Bon Odori dance.
- Fukushima Shrine is located in a quiet residential neighborhood. Please be respectful of the local residents and keep noise levels to a minimum.
- There is a small parking lot at Fukushima Shrine, but it is often full during the festival. If you are driving, please arrive early or be prepared to park in a nearby parking lot.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot at Fukushima Shrine, but it is often full during the festival. If you are driving, please arrive early or be prepared to park in a nearby parking lot. There are several public parking lots within walking distance of the shrine.
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. |