Gleaming lights dance at Takamatsu’s summer festival

Basic Information

Kumano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Takamatsu-cho, Tachikawa City, Tokyo, Japan.

• Address: 1-17-21 Takamatsu-cho, Tachikawa-shi, Tokyo 190-0011
• Phone Number: 042-522-3227
• Access: 15-minute walk from JR Chuo Line Tachikawa Station North Exit
• Festival Days: Third Sunday of August

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Kumano Shrine Festival is a lively and colorful event that attracts many visitors each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:

Mikoshi Procession

The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on the third Sunday of August. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Kumano Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets of Takamatsu-cho.

Lion Dance

Another popular attraction at the festival is the lion dance. The lion dance is performed by a team of dancers who wear colorful lion costumes. The dancers perform a series of acrobatic feats, and they often interact with the crowd. The lion dance is a fun and lively event that is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Food Stalls

No Japanese festival would be complete without food stalls! The Kumano Shrine Festival features a variety of food stalls that sell a variety of delicious treats. From traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and yakisoba (fried noodles).

Games and Activities

In addition to the main events, the Kumano Shrine Festival also features a variety of games and activities for children and adults alike. There are games of chance, such as ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more active games, such as tug-of-war and relay races. There is also a petting zoo, where children can interact with animals such as rabbits and goats.

Blessings and Deities

Kumano Shrine is dedicated to three deities: Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Izanami-no-Mikoto. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is the god of the sea and storms, Izanagi-no-Mikoto is the god of creation, and Izanami-no-Mikoto is the goddess of death and rebirth. These three deities are collectively known as the “Kumano Gongen,” and they are said to bring good luck and fortune to those who worship them.

Origin and History

Kumano Shrine was founded in 1726 as a guardian shrine for the Shibasaki Shinden area. In 1941, the shrine was relocated to its current location to make way for the construction of Tachikawa Air Base. After the war, the shrine was returned to its original location, where it remains today.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are a few tips and notes for visitors to Kumano Shrine:

• The shrine is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Admission is free.
• The shrine is a popular spot for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times.
• There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
• The shrine is located in a quiet residential area, so please be respectful of the neighbors.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Kumano Shrine. The parking lot is located on the right-hand side of the shrine, just before the entrance. There is no charge for parking.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years