Yakuoji Shrine: A Journey Through Time and Tradition
Basic Information
Yakuoji Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Takayama-cho, Hachioji City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms, seas, and agriculture.
- Address: 1-66 Takayama-cho, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 0426-22-5526
- Access: 1-minute walk from Suwa Shrine bus stop, operated by Nishi-Tokyo Bus from Hachioji Station
- Festival Days: August 26th (Mon) and 27th (Tue), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Yakuoji Shrine Festival is a two-day annual event held on August 26th and 27th. It is a lively and colorful festival that attracts many visitors from all over the region.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession. On both days of the festival, the shrine’s mikoshi (portable shrine) is carried through the streets of Takayama-cho by a team of bearers. The mikoshi is a sacred object that is believed to house the spirit of the deity enshrined at the shrine. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a joyous occasion for the local community.
Shishimai Dance
Another popular attraction at the festival is the shishimai dance. The shishimai is a lion-like creature that is often featured in Japanese festivals. The dance is performed by two people, one inside the shishimai costume and one outside. The shishimai dances to the beat of drums and gongs, and it is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Manju Festival
The Yakuoji Shrine Festival is also known as the Manju Festival. Manju are small, steamed buns that are filled with sweet or savory ingredients. During the festival, many vendors sell manju of all different kinds. Visitors can enjoy these delicious treats while they watch the festival activities.
Ryuzu Festival
The Ryuzu Festival is a special event that is held on the second day of the festival. The ryuzu is a dragon boat that is carried through the streets of Takayama-cho. The dragon boat is accompanied by a group of people who play drums and gongs. The Ryuzu Festival is a lively and colorful event that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Blessings and Deities
Yakuoji Shrine is dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms, seas, and agriculture. He is also known as the god of protection and healing. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is a powerful and important deity in Japanese mythology, and he is revered by many people.
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto: God of storms, seas, agriculture, protection, and healing
Origin and History
The origins of Yakuoji Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 12th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Hachioji, but it was moved to its current location in the 16th century. Yakuoji Shrine has a long and rich history, and it has been an important place of worship for the local community for many centuries.
- Founded: 12th century
- Moved to current location: 16th century
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Yakuoji Shrine is a popular tourist destination, and it is especially crowded during the annual festival in August. If you are planning to visit the shrine, here are a few tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and architecture.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its visitors.
- If you are visiting during the festival, be prepared for large crowds.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot at Yakuoji Shrine, but it is often full during the festival. If you are driving, it is best to park at one of the nearby public parking lots.
- Small parking lot at the shrine
- Public parking lots nearby
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. |
