Sakuragi Shrine: A divine celebration of history and nature
Basic Information
Sakuragi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Bunkyo district of Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Sugawara no Michizane, also known as Tenjin, the patron of scholarship and learning.
- Address: 4-3-1, Hongō, Bunkyō-ku, Tōkyō-to 113-0033, Japan
- Phone Number: 03-3811-8535
- Access: A two-minute walk from Hongo-sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Toei Oedo Line, or a one-minute walk from the Hongo-sanchome bus stop.
- Festival Days: The fourth Saturday and Sunday of September
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Sakuragi Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place over two days in late September. The festival celebrates the shrine’s deity, Sugawara no Michizane, and features a variety of traditional Japanese music, dance, and food.
Mikoshi Procession
One of the main 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 Sakuragi Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and colorful event, and it is a chance to see traditional Japanese culture up close.
Kagura Performance
Another popular event at the festival is the kagura performance. Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed to Shinto music. The dances are often very elaborate and beautiful, and they tell stories from Japanese mythology. The Sakuragi Shrine kagura performance is one of the most popular in Tokyo, and it is a must-see for any visitor to the festival.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival would be complete without food stalls, and the Sakuragi Shrine Festival is no exception. There are a variety of food stalls at the festival, selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori and takoyaki to more modern fare like hamburgers and hot dogs. There is something for everyone to enjoy, and the food is always delicious.
- Mikoshi Procession: A lively and colorful parade featuring a large and elaborate portable shrine carried by over 100 people.
- Kagura Performance: A traditional Japanese dance performed to Shinto music, telling stories from Japanese mythology.
- Food Stalls: A variety of food stalls selling traditional Japanese dishes like yakitori and takoyaki, as well as more modern fare like hamburgers and hot dogs.
Blessings and Deities
Sakuragi Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, also known as Tenjin, the patron of scholarship and learning. Tenjin is a popular deity in Japan, and he is often worshipped by students and scholars. He is also said to be a protector of calligraphy and the arts.
- Deity: Sugawara no Michizane (Tenjin)
- Blessings: Scholarship, learning, calligraphy, arts
Origin and History
The origins of Sakuragi Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 15th century. The shrine was originally located in Edo Castle, but it was moved to its current location in the 17th century. The shrine was destroyed by fire in 1945, but it was rebuilt in 1959.
- Founded: 15th century
- Original location: Edo Castle
- Current location: Bunkyo district, Tokyo
- Destroyed by fire: 1945
- Rebuilt: 1959
Tips and Notes for Visitors
The Sakuragi Shrine Festival is a popular event that attracts many visitors each year. If you are planning to attend the festival, here are a few tips:
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the beautiful sights and sounds of the festival.
- Be respectful of the shrine and its customs.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at Sakuragi Shrine. However, there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is the Hongo Sanchome Parking Lot, which is located a two-minute walk from the shrine.
- Hongo Sanchome Parking Lot
- Address: 3-14-11 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone number: 03-3811-8535
- Hours: 24 hours
- Rates: ¥300 per 30 minutes
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. |
