Divine illumination: A sacred night festival in Hachioji
Basic Information
八幡神社 is a Shinto shrine located in the Ōwada-chō district of Hachiōji, Tokyoōji-shi, Tōkyō-to 192-0045
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hachioji Hachiman 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
The mikoshi procession is the highlight of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The mikoshi is believed to be the temporary dwelling of the deity enshrined at the Hachiman Shrine. During the procession, the mikoshi is carried through the streets of Ōwada-chō, accompanied by music and dancing. The procession is a lively and colorful sight, and it is a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and tradition.
Shishimai Dance
The shishimai dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at festivals. The dance is performed by a dancer wearing a lion costume. The lion is believed to be a sacred animal that brings good luck and fortune. During the dance, the lion moves to the rhythm of the music and interacts with the audience. The shishimai dance is a fun and entertaining performance that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Yatai
Yatai are food stalls that are set up at Japanese festivals. They sell a variety of food and drinks, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and kakigōri. Yatai are a great place to try some of Japan’s most popular festival foods. They are also a great place to people-watch and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the festival.
Blessings and Deities
The Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and archery. Hachiman is one of the most popular deities in Japan, and he is worshipped at shrines all over the country. Hachiman is believed to bring good luck and fortune to his worshippers, and he is often invoked for protection in battle. The Hachiman Shrine in Ōwada-chō is a popular place for people to pray for success in their studies, their careers, and their personal lives.
Origin and History
The Hachiman Shrine in Ōwada-chō was founded in the 18th century by a local samurai named Sugiwara Sadayoshi. Sadayoshi was a devout follower of Hachiman, and he built the shrine as a place to worship the deity. The shrine was originally a small building, but it was expanded and renovated several times over the years. The current shrine building was completed in 1933.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Hachiman Shrine is open to visitors every day of the year. The shrine is free to enter, but there is a donation box where visitors can make offerings. Visitors are expected to dress and behave respectfully when visiting the shrine. It is also important to be aware of the following:
- The shrine is a sacred place, so please be quiet and respectful.
- Do not touch any of the shrine’s buildings or objects.
- Do not take any photographs inside the shrine.
- If you are visiting the shrine during a festival, be aware that there may be large crowds.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at the Hachiman Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot and walk to 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. |
