Divine illumination at Tokyo’s vibrant festival
Basic Information
Shin-saki Inari Shrine is a shrine located in Shirokanedai, Minato Ward, Tokyo.
- Address: 2-26-14 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Phone Number: 03-3441-6800
- Access: 2-minute walk from Takanawadai Station on the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line
- Festival Days: May 21st (Tue), 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The Shin-saki 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
The mikoshi procession is the highlight of the festival. A mikoshi is a portable shrine that is carried through the streets by a team of people. The Shin-saki Inari Shrine mikoshi is a large and elaborate structure, and it is a sight to behold as it is carried through the streets. The procession is accompanied by music and dancing, and it is a festive and joyous occasion.
Shishimai Dance
The shishimai dance is a traditional Japanese dance that is often performed at festivals. The dance is performed by two people, one of whom wears a lion costume and the other of whom plays a drum. The lion costume is very elaborate, and the dance is very lively and entertaining.
Kagura
Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that is often performed at Shinto shrines. Kagura is a sacred dance that is performed to entertain the gods and goddesses. The Shin-saki Inari Shrine kagura is a beautiful and graceful dance that is a highlight of the festival.
Food Stalls
There are many food stalls at the Shin-saki Inari Shrine Festival, selling a variety of delicious Japanese food. Some of the most popular foods include takoyaki, yakisoba, and taiyaki.
Games and Activities
There are also a number of games and activities for children at the festival. These include things like ring toss, beanbag toss, and goldfish scooping.
Blessings and Deities
Shin-saki Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami, the god of rice and sake. Inari Okami is one of the most popular deities in Japan, and is revered by farmers, merchants, and businessmen alike. Shin-saki Inari Shrine is said to grant blessings for good harvests, prosperous business, and financial success.
Origin and History
The origins of Shin-saki Inari Shrine are unknown, but it is believed to have been founded in the early Edo period (1603-1868). The shrine was originally located in a different part of Minato Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1923 after the Great Kanto Earthquake.
Tips and Notes for Visitors
Here are some tips and notes for visitors to Shin-saki Inari Shrine:
- The shrine is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Admission is free.
- There is a small parking lot available for visitors.
- The shrine is a popular destination for weddings and other ceremonies, so it is best to avoid visiting during these times if you are looking for a quiet experience.
Parking Information
There is a small parking lot available for visitors to Shin-saki Inari Shrine. The parking lot is located behind the shrine, and it can accommodate about 10 cars. The parking fee is 500 yen per day.
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. |