Enchanting melodies and vibrant hues at No際 Shrine
Basic Information
No際 Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Higashimurayama, Tokyo, Japan.
- Address: 3-35-1, Kumegawacho, Higashimurayama-shi, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 042-391-0988
- Access: 14-minute walk from Higashi-Kumegawa Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: July 8th (Sat) and 9th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The No際 Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The main events and attractions of the festival include:
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 group of people. The mikoshi of No際 Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere throughout the town.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular event at the festival is the Bon Odori dance. Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to honor the spirits of the dead. The Bon Odori dance is performed by people of all ages, and it is a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition.
Food and Games
There are also a variety of food and games available at the festival. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese dishes such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also a number of games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors. The fireworks display is a fitting end to a fun and festive day.
Blessings and Deities
No際 Shrine is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful and revered figure in Japanese mythology. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is known for his strength, courage, and ability to protect people from evil. He is also associated with agriculture, fishing, and the sea.
- Deity: Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Blessings: Protection from evil, good luck in agriculture and fishing, safe travels
Origin and History
The origins of No際 Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded during the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Higashimurayama, but it was moved to its current location in 1624.
- Founded: Kamakura period (1185-1333)
- Moved to current location: 1624
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to No際 Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The festival is held on July 8th and 9th each year.
- During the festival, there is a mikoshi procession, a Bon Odori dance, and a fireworks display.
- There is a small parking lot at the shrine, but it is often full during the festival. It is recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot at No際 Shrine, but it is often full during the festival. It is recommended to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot.
- Parking lot: Small, often full during the festival
- Recommended: Use public transportation or park in a nearby 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. |