Enchanting melodies and vibrant hues paint the streets of Ota
Basic Information
Nestled in the heart of Ota Ward, Tokyo, lies the venerable Otaku Ontake Shrine, a sacred site steeped in history and tradition. Enshrined within its hallowed halls is the revered deity of agriculture, industry, and prosperity, revered for centuries by the local community. While the exact date of its inception remains shrouded in the mists of time, the shrine’s origins are believed to date back to the Edo period, a testament to its enduring significance.
- Address: 37-20 Minekitamachi, Ota Ward, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3720-3333
- Access: A short walk from Ontakesan Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line
- Festival Days: September (exact dates to be announced)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Otaku Ontake Shrine Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration that attracts visitors from far and wide. Held annually in September, the festival showcases a variety of traditional and modern attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the highlights of the festival is the Mikoshi Procession, where portable shrines, or mikoshi, are paraded through the streets of Ota Ward. These elaborately decorated shrines are carried by teams of people, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The procession is accompanied by traditional music and dance performances, adding to the festive spirit.
Kagura Performance
Another popular attraction is the Kagura Performance, a traditional Japanese dance and music ritual. Performed by shrine maidens, or miko, the Kagura is a sacred dance that is believed to bring good fortune and ward off evil spirits. The graceful movements and enchanting melodies of the Kagura create a captivating spectacle that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Food Stalls and Games
No festival is complete without delicious food and fun games! The Otaku Ontake Shrine Festival features a wide variety of food stalls offering a tempting array of local delicacies and treats. From classic festival favorites like takoyaki and yakisoba to unique regional specialties, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Additionally, there are various games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy, making the festival a perfect destination for families and friends.
Fireworks Display
As the festival reaches its climax, the night sky is illuminated by a spectacular fireworks display. The brilliant colors and dazzling patterns of the fireworks light up the darkness, creating a magical and unforgettable moment for all attendees. The fireworks display is a fitting end to the Otaku Ontake Shrine Festival, leaving visitors with a sense of wonder and awe.
Blessings and Deities
The Otaku Ontake Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Kunitsukotonushi no Mikoto, Oonamuchi no Mikoto, and Sukunahikona no Mikoto. These deities are revered for their roles in various aspects of life, including agriculture, industry, and prosperity. Worshipping at the shrine is believed to bring blessings and good fortune in these areas.
- Kunitsukotonushi no Mikoto: God of the earth and agriculture
- Oonamuchi no Mikoto: God of medicine and industry
- Sukunahikona no Mikoto: God of prosperity and wealth
Origin and History
The origins of the Otaku Ontake Shrine can be traced back to the Edo period, although the exact date of its establishment is unknown. It is believed that the shrine was initially a small shrine or祠(ほこら) and later expanded into the立派な社殿(しゃでん) that stands today. Over the years, the shrine has undergone several renovations and expansions, reflecting its growing popularity and significance in the community.
- Edo period: Initial establishment of the shrine
- Meiji period: Expansion and renovation of the shrine
- Showa period: Further renovations and establishment of the shrine’s current appearance
Tips and Notes for Visitors
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Otaku Ontake Shrine Festival, here are some tips and notes for visitors:
- Check the festival schedule in advance to plan your visit accordingly.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for viewing the festival events.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Stay hydrated by bringing water or purchasing drinks from the festival stalls.
- Be respectful of the shrine’s customs and traditions.
- Dispose of trash properly in designated areas to maintain the cleanliness of the festival grounds.
Parking Information
Unfortunately, the Otaku Ontake Shrine does not have its own parking lot. However, there are several public parking lots andコインパーキング(coin parking) facilities in the vicinity of the shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park their vehicles in these nearby parking facilities.
- Public transportation: The shrine is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest station being Ontakesan Station on the Tokyu Ikegami Line.
- Coin parking facilities: There are several coin parking facilities located within walking distance of the shrine. Visitors can use these facilities for a fee.
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. |
