Enchanting lights illuminate the night at Kumano Shrine
Basic Information
Kumano Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Motoki Minami-cho, Adachi Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms and the sea.
- Address: 18-8 Motoki Minami-cho, Adachi-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: N/A
- Access: 15-minute walk from Kita-Senju Station on the Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line or Tobu Skytree Line
- Festival Days: September 14th (Sat) and 15th (Sun), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Kumano 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
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, where a portable shrine is carried through the streets of Adachi Ward. The mikoshi is decorated with colorful tapestries and streamers, and it is carried by a team of men and women. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it creates a festive atmosphere.
Yatai (Food Stalls)
During the festival, many yatai (food stalls) are set up in the streets around Kumano Shrine. These stalls sell a variety of traditional Japanese foods, such as takoyaki, yakisoba, and cotton candy. There are also games and activities for children, such as goldfish scooping and ring toss.
Kagura Performance
On the evening of the festival, a kagura performance is held at Kumano Shrine. Kagura is a traditional Japanese dance and music performance that is often performed at Shinto shrines. The performance tells the stories of the gods and goddesses of Japanese mythology, and it is a beautiful and moving experience.
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. The fireworks display is a fitting end to a lively and enjoyable festival.
Blessings and Deities
Kumano Shrine is dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the god of storms and the sea. He is also known as the god of agriculture, industry, and protection against evil. Visitors to the shrine pray for good luck, good health, and protection from harm.
Origin and History
The exact date of Kumano Shrine’s founding is unknown, but it is believed to have been established in the 13th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Adachi Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1872. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the years, most recently in 1958.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
When visiting Kumano Shrine, please be respectful of the following:
- Remove your shoes before entering the main hall of the shrine.
- Do not touch any of the sacred objects in the shrine.
- Be quiet and respectful while praying.
- Photography is not permitted inside the main hall of the shrine.
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
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. |