春日 Shrine: A Journey Through History and Tradition
Basic Information
Kasuga Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Ota Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, the deity of thunder and war.
- Address: 1-14-1 Chuo, Ota City, Tokyo 143-0024
- Phone Number: 03-3771-2729
- Access: 15-minute walk from JR Omori Station
- Festival Days: June 17th (Sat), June 18th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kasuga Shrine Ota Ward festival is a vibrant and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
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 team of people. The mikoshi of Kasuga Shrine is particularly large and impressive, and it is carried by a team of over 100 people. The procession is a lively and energetic event, and it is a great opportunity to see the local community come together to celebrate.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the Kasuga Shrine festival, a kagura performance is held on the shrine grounds. The performance is a beautiful and graceful way to learn more about Japanese culture and tradition.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the Kasuga Shrine festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling a wide range of delicious Japanese dishes. From classic festival favorites like yakitori and takoyaki to more unique dishes like okonomiyaki and taiyaki, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Games and Activities
In addition to the main events, there will also be a variety of games and activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon animals. There will also be a petting zoo and a bouncy castle for the kids.
Blessings and Deities
Kasuga Shrine is dedicated to the god Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, the deity of thunder and war. Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto is said to be a powerful and protective deity, and he is often invoked for help in times of trouble. He is also associated with good luck and fortune, and many people visit Kasuga Shrine to pray for success in their endeavors.
Origin and History
The origins of Kasuga Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Ota Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1659. Kasuga Shrine has been a popular place of worship for centuries, and it continues to attract many visitors today.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
If you are planning to visit Kasuga Shrine, here are a few tips and notes to keep in mind:
- The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- There is a large parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other special events.
- If you are visiting during a festival or other special event, be prepared for large crowds.
Parking Information
There is a large parking lot available for visitors to Kasuga Shrine. The parking lot is located next to the shrine, and it can accommodate over 100 cars. 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. |
