Enchanting melodies and vibrant floats at Hachioji’s summer festival
Basic Information
An overview of the festival will be provided here.
- Address: 1365 Uchikoshi-cho, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo
- Phone Number: N/A
- Access: 10-minute walk from Kitano Station on the Keio Line
- Festival Days: July 15th and the last Saturday of August
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Hachioji Uchikoshi-cho Hachiman Shrine 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 a portable shrine is carried through the streets by participants. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and ornaments, and it is believed that carrying it brings good luck and prosperity to the community.
Lion Dance
Another popular attraction is the lion dance, performed by skilled dancers wearing elaborate lion costumes. The lion dance is said to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune, and it is a lively and entertaining performance that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls, and the Hachioji Uchikoshi-cho Hachiman Shrine Festival is no exception. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of delicious food and drinks, including yakisoba, takoyaki, and kakigori (shaved ice with syrup).
Stage Performances
The festival also features a variety of stage performances, including traditional Japanese music and dance, as well as performances by local bands and singers. These performances provide a great opportunity to experience Japanese culture and entertainment.
Blessings and Deities
The Hachioji Uchikoshi-cho Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Emperor Ojin (譽田別命), Susanoo-no-Mikoto (素盞嗚尊), and Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto (天児屋根命).
- Emperor Ojin is the legendary 15th emperor of Japan and is revered as the marriage.
Origin and History
The Hachioji Uchikoshi-cho Hachiman Shrine was founded in 1186 by Yoritomo Minamoto, the first shogun of the Kamakura shogunate. Yoritomo Minamoto is said to have enshrined a statue of Emperor Ojin at the shrine to pray for victory in battle. The shrine was later rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries.
- Founded in 1186 by Yoritomo Minamoto
- Enshrined a statue of Emperor Ojin to pray for victory in battle
- Rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Hachioji Uchikoshi-cho Hachiman Shrine:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times if you are looking for a quiet experience.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is located a 10-minute walk from Kitano Station on the Keio Line.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to the Hachioji Uchikoshi-cho Hachiman Shrine. However, the parking lot is often full, especially during festivals and other busy times. If you are planning to drive to the shrine, it is best to arrive early or park in a nearby public parking lot.
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.
