O-Tama Inari Shrine: A Journey Through History and Tradition
Basic Information
O-Tama Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and sake.
- Address: 4-21-6 Shin-Koiwa, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo 124-0024
- Phone Number: 03-3655-8110
- Access: 8-minute walk from Shin-Koiwa Station on the JR Sobu Line
- Festival Days: April 29th, 2024 (Reiwa 6)
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The O-Tama Inari 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
A highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Katsushika Ward. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and streamers, and it is carried by a team of people. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the festival.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. During the O-Tama Inari Shrine Festival, kagura performances are held several times a day. The performances are very beautiful and elaborate, and they are a great way to learn more about Japanese culture.
Food Stalls
No Japanese festival is complete without food stalls! At the O-Tama Inari Shrine Festival, there will be a variety of food stalls selling everything from traditional Japanese dishes to international cuisine. There will also be plenty of drinks available, including beer, sake, and soft drinks.
Games and Activities
There will also be a variety of games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy at the festival. 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 children.
Blessings and Deities
O-Tama Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and sake. Inari is one of the most popular deities in Japan, and is revered for its role in bringing good fortune and prosperity. Inari is often depicted as a white fox, and foxes are considered to be Inari’s messengers.
- Deity: Inari, the god of rice and sake
- Benefits of Worship: Good fortune, prosperity, success in business
- Symbol: White fox
Origin and History
The origins of O-Tama Inari Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located in Kanda, Tokyo, but it was moved to its current location in Katsushika Ward in 1871.
- Founded: Early Edo period (1603-1868)
- Original Location: Kanda, Tokyo
- Current Location: Katsushika Ward, Tokyo
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to O-Tama Inari Shrine:
- Hours: The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
- Admission: Admission to the shrine is free.
- Dress Code: There is no specific dress code for visiting the shrine, but it is considered respectful to dress modestly.
- Photography: Photography is permitted within the shrine grounds, but please be respectful of other visitors and avoid taking pictures of people without their permission.
- Smoking: Smoking is not permitted within the shrine grounds.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at O-Tama Inari Shrine, but there are several public parking lots nearby. The closest parking lot is located about a 5-minute walk from the shrine.
- Closest Parking Lot: About a 5-minute walk from the shrine
- Other Parking Lots: There are several other public parking lots within a short walking distance of the shrine.
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. |
