Enchanting Shrine Festival in Tokyo: Unveiling the History and Delights of Kumano Shrine

Basic Information

Kumano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nakamachi, Kodaira City, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deities Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, the creator gods of Japanese mythology.

• Address: 361 Nakamachi, Kodaira City, Tokyo 187-0042
• Phone Number: 042-344-0638
• Access: 12-minute walk from the South Exit of Kodaira Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line
• Festival Days: September 19th, 2024 (Reiwa 6)

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

The Kumano Shrine Festival is an annual event that takes place on September 19th. It is a lively and colorful festival that attracts many visitors from all over the region.

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 Kumano Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets.

Traditional Performances

During the festival, there are also a number of traditional performances, such as taiko drumming, kagura dance, and koto music. These performances are a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition.

Food and Games

There are also a number of food and game stalls at the festival. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional Japanese foods, as well as some more modern festival favorites. There are also a number of games and activities for children, making the festival a great place for families to visit.

Fireworks Display

The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display. The fireworks are launched from a nearby park, and they light up the night sky with their brilliant colors.

Blessings and Deities

Kumano Shrine is dedicated to the deities Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, the creator gods of Japanese mythology. These deities are said to have created the Japanese islands and given birth to many other gods and goddesses. They are also associated with marriage, childbirth, and family.

• Deities: Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto
• Blessings: Marriage, childbirth, family, good luck, prosperity

Origin and History

The origins of Kumano Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Heian period (794-1185). The shrine was originally located in the village of Kishi, but it was moved to its current location in Nakamachi in the Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently in 1935.

• Founded: Early Heian period (794-1185)
• Original location: Village of Kishi
• Current location: Nakamachi
• Rebuilt: 1935

Tips and Notes for Visitors

Here are some tips and notes for visitors to the Kumano Shrine Festival:

• The festival is held on September 19th every year.
• The festival is a popular event, so it is advisable to arrive early to avoid crowds.
• There are a number of food and game stalls at the festival, so visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional Japanese foods and activities.
• The festival concludes with a spectacular fireworks display.

Parking Information

There is no parking lot at Kumano Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or park in a nearby parking lot and walk to the shrine.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years