Enchanting Shrine Festival in Musashino
Basic Information
Musashino Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kodaira City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, the god of crossroads and travel.
- Address: 8-2-6 Hanakoganei, Kodaira-shi, Tokyo 187-0002
- Phone Number: 042-341-0407
- Access: 17-minute walk from Hanakoganei Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
- Festival Days: October 7th (Tue) and 8th (Wed), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Musashino Shrine Festival is a two-day annual event held on October 7th and 8th. The festival features a variety of traditional Japanese music and dance performances, as well as food and game stalls.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese Shinto ritual dance and music performance. It is often performed at festivals and other special occasions. The Kagura performance at the Musashino Shrine Festival is a highlight of the event.
Bon Odori Dance
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to honor the spirits of the dead. The Bon Odori dance at the Musashino Shrine Festival is a lively and energetic performance that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Food and Game Stalls
The Musashino Shrine Festival features a variety of food and game stalls. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese festival foods such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also a variety of games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
Mikoshi Procession
On the second day of the festival, a mikoshi procession takes place. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a group of people. The mikoshi procession is a lively and colorful event that is a highlight of the festival.
Blessings and Deities
Musashino Shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, the god of crossroads and travel. He is also known as the god of beginnings and transitions, and is often worshipped by people who are starting a new journey or venture in life.
- Sarutahiko Okami: God of crossroads and travel, beginnings and transitions
Origin and History
Musashino Shrine was founded in 1724 by a Buddhist priest named Daiken. He was inspired to build the shrine after he had a vision of Sarutahiko Okami. The shrine was originally called Bishamon-sha, but it was renamed Musashino Shrine in 1868.
- 1724: Founded by Buddhist priest Daiken
- 1868: Renamed Musashino Shrine
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Musashino Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, here are a few tips:
- Arrive early: The festival is very popular, so it is a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring cash: Many of the food and game stalls only accept cash.
- Be respectful: The Musashino Shrine is a sacred place, so please be respectful of the shrine and its visitors.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Musashino Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby.
- Hanakoganei Station Parking Lot: 1-minute walk from Hanakoganei Station
- Kodaira City Hall Parking Lot: 5-minute walk from Musashino Shrine
- Kodaira Public Library Parking Lot: 7-minute walk from Musashino 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. |
