Autumn harvest festival adorned by giant trees and kagura

Basic Information

Gotsutsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Akiyoshidai, Shuho-cho, Yamaguchi prefecture. It is dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the younger brother of Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess.

• Address: 1392 Yosaizawa, Akiruno-shi, Tokyo
• Phone Number: 042-596-0514 (Akiruno City Tourism Association)
• Access: Take the bus bound for “Kamiyosaizawa” from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line and get off at “Gundumyo”. It is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop.
• Festival Days: October 15th

Main Events and Attractions of the Festival

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

Kagura

Kagura is a traditional Japanese Shinto ritual dance and music performed at shrines and festivals. At the Gotsutsu Shrine Autumn Harvest Festival, kagura is performed by local shrine maidens and musicians. The dance is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the community.

Noh Drama

Noh drama is a traditional form of Japanese theater that combines music, dance, and storytelling. At the Gotsutsu Shrine Autumn Harvest Festival, Noh drama performances are held on a special stage set up in the shrine grounds. The performances are typically based on stories from Japanese mythology or history.

Kyudo Archery

Kyudo is a traditional Japanese martial art of archery. At the Gotsutsu Shrine Autumn Harvest Festival, visitors can try their hand at kyudo archery under the guidance of experienced instructors. This is a great opportunity to learn about Japanese culture and history while also having some fun.

Food Stalls

A variety of food stalls are set up at the Gotsutsu Shrine Autumn Harvest Festival, offering a wide range of delicious Japanese food and snacks. Visitors can enjoy everything from traditional festival favorites like takoyaki and yakisoba to more unique dishes like grilled eel and sashimi.

Games and Activities

There are also a number of games and activities for children and adults to enjoy at the Gotsutsu Shrine Autumn Harvest Festival. These include traditional Japanese games like ring toss and goldfish scooping, as well as more modern games like face painting and balloon art.

Blessings and Deities

The Gotsutsu Shrine is believed to bestow various blessings upon its worshippers, including:

• Good luck in business and finance
• Success in studies and examinations
• Safe childbirth and easy delivery
• Good health and longevity
• Protection from evil spirits and misfortune

The shrine’s main deity is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the younger brother of Amaterasu Omikami, the sun goddess. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is known for his bravery and strength, and he is often depicted as a fierce warrior. He is also associated with the sea and storms.

Origin and History

The exact origins of the Gotsutsu Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded over 1,000 years ago. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Yamaguchi Prefecture, but it was moved to its current location in Akiyoshidai in the 16th century.

The Gotsutsu Shrine has a long and rich history. It has been visited by many famous people over the years, including the samurai warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi and the emperor Meiji. The shrine has also been featured in several works of Japanese literature and art.

Tips and Notes for Visitors

If you are planning to visit the Gotsutsu 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 to the shrine is free.
• There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
• The shrine is located in a rural area, so it is best to rent a car or take a taxi if you are not driving your own vehicle.
• There are several restaurants and shops in the area surrounding the shrine.

Parking Information

There is a small parking lot available for visitors to the Gotsutsu Shrine. The parking lot is located just a short walk from the shrine entrance.

The parking lot is free of charge, but it is relatively small, so it is best to arrive early if you are planning to drive.

If the parking lot is full, there are several other parking options available in the area. There is a larger parking lot located about a 5-minute walk from the shrine. There is also street parking available in the surrounding neighborhood.

Popular Stalls and Food Carts in Recent Years