Enchanting shrine festival with illuminated floats
Basic Information
Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Akiruno City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Hachiman, the god of war and archery.
- Address: 350 Niimiya, Akiruno, Tokyo 197-0814, Japan
- Phone Number: 042-596-0001
- Access: 8-minute walk from Musashi-五日市 Station
- Festival Days: October 19th (Sat), October 20th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hachiman Shrine Akiruno 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 Hachiman Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets of Akiruno.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Hachiman Shrine Akiruno Festival, there will be several kagura performances throughout the day. These performances are a great way to learn more about Japanese culture and tradition.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Hachiman Shrine Akiruno Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. There will be something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the mikoshi procession, kagura performances, and food stalls, there will also be a variety of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. These games and activities are a great way to have fun and make memories with family and friends.
Fireworks Display
The Hachiman Shrine Akiruno Festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby hill, and they can be seen from all over the city. The fireworks display is a beautiful and fitting end to a wonderful festival.
Blessings and Deities
Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the god Hachiman, the god of war and archery. Hachiman is also revered as the protector of the state and the people. He is often depicted as a warrior wearing armor and carrying a bow and arrow.
- Blessings: Hachiman is believed to bestow blessings of victory, success, and protection.
- Deities: Hachiman is enshrined together with his wife, Himegami, and his son, Ojin.
Origin and History
The origins of Hachiman Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 9th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Akiruno City, but it was moved to its current location in 1603.
- Founded: 9th century
- Moved to current location: 1603
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Hachiman Shrine:
- Dress code: There is no specific dress code for visiting Hachiman Shrine, but it is considered respectful to dress modestly.
- Photography: Photography is allowed inside the shrine, but it is prohibited to take pictures of the honden (main shrine building).
- Offerings: Visitors can make offerings of money, rice, or sake at the shrine.
- Ema: Visitors can also write their wishes on ema (wooden plaques) and hang them at the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a parking lot available for visitors to Hachiman Shrine. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine.
- Location: The parking lot is located at 350 Niimiya, Akiruno, Tokyo 197-0814, Japan.
- Hours: The parking lot is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Fees: Parking is free of charge.
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. |
