Divine palanquin parade at Kodaira Shrine
Basic Information
Kodaira Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kodaira City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the legendary ancestor of the Imperial Family of Japan.
- Address: 1-2573 Ogawa-cho, Kodaira-shi, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 042-341-0407
- Access: 18-minute walk from Higashiyamato Station on the Seibu Haijima Line, or 2-minute walk from Ogawa-dera on the Toei Bus or Nishi Tokyo Bus
- Festival Days: September 17th, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kodaira Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on September 17th. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight 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 Kodaira Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession winds its way through the streets of Kodaira, and it is a sight to behold.
Dedication Performances
During the festival, there are also a number of dedication performances held at the shrine. These performances include traditional Japanese music and dance, as well as more modern performances such as pop music and comedy. The dedication performances are a great way to experience Japanese culture and to learn more about the history of the Kodaira Shrine.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Kodaira Shrine Festival, there are a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to more modern fare. You can find something to suit every taste, and you’re sure to enjoy the delicious food.
Games and Activities
In addition to the mikoshi procession, dedication performances, and food stalls, there are also a number of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. These include traditional Japanese games such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games such as face painting and balloon animals. There’s something for everyone at the Kodaira Shrine Festival!
Blessings and Deities
Kodaira Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess and the legendary ancestor of the Imperial Family of Japan. Amaterasu Omikami is revered as the deity of the sun, light, and life, and is believed to bring blessings of good health, prosperity, and happiness.
- Deity: Amaterasu Omikami
- Blessings: Good health, prosperity, happiness
Origin and History
Kodaira Shrine was founded in 1661 by a group of villagers who were seeking divine protection for their new settlement. The shrine was originally a small structure, but it was expanded and renovated several times over the years. The current shrine building was completed in 1868.
- Founded: 1661
- Founder: Villagers of Kodaira
- Purpose: Divine protection for the settlement
Tips and Notes for Visitors
When visiting Kodaira Shrine, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- Photography is permitted, but please be respectful of other visitors.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Kodaira Shrine. The parking lot is located on the east side of the shrine, and it can accommodate about 20 cars.
- Location: East side of the shrine
- Capacity: 20 cars
- Fee: Free
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. |
