Odawara’s grand festival of floats and music
Basic Information
Here’s an overview of the 2024 Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival.
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Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. Here are some of the main events and attractions of the festival:
Mikoshi Procession
One of the highlights of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where portable shrines are carried through the streets of Ota Ward. The mikoshi are elaborately decorated and carried by teams of people, who chant and dance as they go. The procession is a lively and energetic sight, and it’s a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
Bon Odori Dance
Another popular event at the festival is the bon odori dance. This traditional Japanese dance is performed by people of all ages, and it’s a great way to get involved in the festivities. The bon odori is a fun and lively dance, and it’s a great way to learn more about Japanese culture.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival is no exception. There will be a wide variety of food stalls at the festival, selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as oden and yakitori.
Games and Activities
There will also be a variety of games and activities for children at the festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals. There’s something for everyone at the Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival, so be sure to come out and enjoy the fun!
Blessings and Deities
The Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war and guardian deity of warriors. Hachiman is one of the most important deities in the Shinto pantheon, and he is revered for his strength, courage, and wisdom. He is also believed to be the protector of Japan and the Japanese people.
- Deity: Hachiman, the god of war and guardian deity of warriors
- Blessings: Strength, courage, wisdom, protection
Origin and History
The Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival has a long and storied history. The shrine itself was founded in the 13th century, and the festival has been held annually ever since. Over the years, the festival has grown in popularity, and it is now one of the largest and most popular festivals in Ota Ward.
- Founded: 13th century
- History: Held annually since the shrine’s founding, the festival has grown in popularity over the years
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you’re planning to attend the Hachiman Shrine Ota Ward Grand Festival, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:
- Dates: First Saturday and Sunday of September (September 7th and 8th in 2024)
- Location: Hachiman Shrine, 1-14-22 Nakaikegami, Ota Ward, Tokyo
- Access: 10-minute walk from Nishikamata Station on the Toei Asakusa Line, or 1-minute walk from the Hachiman Jinja-mae bus stop on the Tokyu Bus Omori/Kamiikeya Loop Line
- What to expect: Mikoshi procession, bon odori dance, food stalls, games and activities for children
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat and sunscreen, and arrive early to get a good spot for the mikoshi procession
Parking Information
There is limited parking available at the Hachiman Shrine. If you’re driving to the festival, it’s best to arrive early to get a spot. There are also several paid parking lots in the area.
- Parking: Limited parking available at the shrine, paid parking lots in the area
- Tip: Arrive early to get a parking spot
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. |
