八幡山八幡神社: A Journey Through Time and Tradition
Basic Information
八幡山 Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Setagaya Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and guardian of warriors. The shrine is known for its annual festival, which takes place on September 22nd and 23rd. During the festival, a portable shrine, or mikoshi, is carried through the streets of the neighborhood, accompanied by music and dancing. The festival is a popular event for both locals and visitors alike.
- Address: 1-12-2 Yahatayama, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 154-0023, Japan
- Phone Number: 03-3422-1370
- Access: 10-minute walk from Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line
- Festival Days: September 22nd and 23rd, 2024
Main Events and Attractions of the Festival
The八幡山 Hachiman Shrine Festival is a two-day event that takes place on September 22nd and 23rd each year. The festival features a variety of events and attractions, including:
Mikoshi Procession
The highlight of the festival is the mikoshi procession, which takes place on the second day of the festival. A portable shrine, or mikoshi, is carried through the streets of the neighborhood, accompanied by music and dancing. The mikoshi is believed to be inhabited by the deity Hachiman, and the procession is a way to show respect to the deity and to pray for good fortune.
Kagura Performance
Kagura is a traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling. During the festival, kagura performances are held at the shrine. The performances tell stories from Japanese mythology and folklore, and they are a popular attraction for visitors of all ages.
Food Stalls
A variety of food stalls are set up at the festival, selling a variety of Japanese dishes, such as yakitori, takoyaki, and okonomiyaki. There are also stalls selling souvenirs and crafts.
Bon Odori
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese dance that is performed during the Obon festival, which takes place in August. During the八幡山 Hachiman Shrine Festival, Bon Odori performances are held on the evening of the second day of the festival. Visitors are encouraged to join in the dancing.
- Mikoshi Procession: A portable shrine is carried through the streets, accompanied by music and dancing.
- Kagura Performance: Traditional Japanese performing art that combines music, dance, and storytelling.
- Food Stalls: A variety of food stalls selling Japanese dishes, souvenirs, and crafts.
- Bon Odori: Traditional Japanese dance performed during the Obon festival.
Blessings and Deities
八幡山 Hachiman Shrine is dedicated to the deity Hachiman, the god of war and guardian of warriors. Hachiman is also revered as a protector of agriculture and commerce. The shrine is believed to have been founded in the 12th century, and it has been a popular place of worship for centuries.
- Deity: Hachiman, the god of war and guardian of warriors
- Blessings: Protection in battle, success in business, good harvest
Origin and History
The origins of八幡山 Hachiman Shrine are unclear, but it is believed to have been founded in the 12th century. The shrine was originally located in a different part of Setagaya Ward, but it was moved to its current location in 1665. The shrine has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, most recently in 1947.
- Founded: 12th century
- Moved to current location: 1665
- Rebuilt: 1947
Tips and Notes for Visitors
八幡山 Hachiman Shrine is a popular tourist destination, especially during the annual festival in September. Here are some tips and notes for visitors:
- Hours: The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.
- Admission: Admission to the shrine is free.
- Dress code: Visitors are expected to dress respectfully when visiting the shrine.
- Photography: Photography is permitted inside the shrine, but visitors are asked to be respectful of other visitors and to avoid taking pictures of people without their permission.
Parking Information
There is no parking lot at八幡山 Hachiman Shrine. Visitors are advised to use public transportation or to park in a nearby parking lot.
- Public transportation: The shrine is a 10-minute walk from Sangenjaya Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line.
- Parking lot: There is a paid parking lot located a few blocks from 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. |
