Neon lights illuminate the night sky
Basic Information
Kasai Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kasai, Edogawa, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the gods Futsunushi-no-Mikoto, Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Address: 6-10-5 Higashikanecho, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 125-0041
- Phone Number: 03-3607-4560
- Access: 10-minute walk from Kanecho Station on the JR Joban Line or Keisei Line
- Festival Days: September 21st (Sat), 2024 (Reiwa 6)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kasai 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 highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Kasai by teams of people. The mikoshi is decorated with elaborate carvings and ornaments, and it is believed to be the resting place of the shrine’s deities during the festival.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Kasai Shrine Festival, kagura is performed by local dancers and musicians, and it is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the community.
Bon Odori Dance
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which is a time to honor the spirits of the dead. During the Kasai Shrine Festival, Bon Odori is performed by local residents, and it is a chance for people to come together and celebrate the community’s heritage.
Food and Games
The festival also features a variety of food and games, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and goldfish scooping. There are also many stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Fireworks Display
The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display over the Edo River. The fireworks are launched from a barge in the river, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors.
Blessings and Deities
Kasai Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Futsunushi-no-Mikoto, Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto, and Tokugawa Ieyasu.
- Futsunushi-no-Mikoto: The god of swords, martial arts, and victory.
- Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto: The legendary prince who is said to have conquered eastern Japan.
- Tokugawa Ieyasu: The founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, which ruled Japan for over 250 years.
These deities are believed to bestow blessings such as success in business, good health, and protection from evil.
Origin and History
The origins of Kasai Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the late Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Kasai, but it was moved to its current location in 1659.
Kasai Shrine has a long and rich history. It has been visited by many famous people over the years, including the shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu and the emperor Meiji.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Kasai Shrine:
- The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- There is a parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies.
- There are several restaurants and shops located near the shrine.
Parking Information
There is a parking lot available for visitors to Kasai Shrine. The parking lot is located a short walk from the shrine.
The parking lot is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The parking fee is 500 yen per day.
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. |