Tori no Ichi at Hanazono Shrine
The annual Tori no Ichi festival held at Hanazono Shrine in Tokyo is one of the most famous and vibrant Japanese Festivals that celebrates good fortune and prosperity. Every year, people from all walks of life gather at this historic shrine for a festive celebration that lights up the heart of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district. From traditional market stalls selling colorful kumade (decorative rakes) to vibrant Japanese Festival Traditions, this event is a must-see for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a regular attendee, Tori no Ichi promises to offer a unique experience deeply rooted in Japanese Culture Events.
| Event Dates | November 4-5, 16-17, 28-29, 2024 |
| Official site | http://hanazono-jinja.or.jp/ceremony/ |
| Location (venue) | Hanazono Shrine |
| Address | 5-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo |
| Entry | Free |
The History and Origin of Tori no Ichi
Background of the Festival
The Tori no Ichi festival has been celebrated for centuries, with its roots dating back to the Edo period. Traditionally, this event is held on the “days of the rooster” according to the Japanese Festival Calendar, which occurs in November. The festival’s origin lies in worshipping the deity of prosperity and good fortune, known as Otori-sama. Businesses and merchants especially participate in this Traditional Japanese Festival to pray for success and growth in the coming year.
Historical Changes
Over time, the festival has evolved, blending its Traditional Japanese Dance Festivals with modern celebrations. What started as a solemn ritual has grown into one of the Best Festivals in Japan, especially in Tokyo. Today, it is renowned for its lively atmosphere, bustling markets, and the tradition of purchasing kumade, symbolizing the gathering of good luck and wealth. Despite these changes, the festival has managed to retain its core essence, offering a beautiful blend of both old and new Japanese Festival Traditions.
Highlights of the Tori no Ichi Festival
Main Events and Performances
The Tori no Ichi festival offers a variety of events, but the kumade market stands out as the main attraction. These elaborately decorated rakes are adorned with various lucky charms, such as gold coins, gods, and animals. Purchasing a kumade is a symbol of “raking in” good fortune for the year ahead. The stallholders also engage in traditional Japanese Festival Costumes, which adds to the festival’s cultural richness.
Another significant event is the ritual called “Tejime”, a unique hand-clapping ceremony performed when a kumade purchase is completed. This ritual seals the deal with luck and brings a lively, positive energy to the atmosphere. The rhythmic clapping is a crucial part of this Japanese Street Festival, creating a bond between seller and buyer.
The festival also hosts several performances, including traditional dance and music, adding an artistic layer to the celebrations. One of the most notable is the Japanese Lion Dance, which represents strength and protection. This performance is a crowd favorite, where performers, donned in elaborate lion costumes, dance energetically to the beat of drums. With lively tunes and impressive choreography, this dance is one of the festival’s highlights.
Throughout the day, you’ll witness small processions with portable shrines, known as mikoshi, parading through the streets. This Japanese Matsuri tradition allows participants to carry the gods and spirits through the festival, ensuring their blessings are spread to all attendees. At night, the streets are illuminated by lanterns, casting a magical glow that enhances the spiritual essence of the festival.
Unique Traditions and Customs
One of the most distinctive aspects of Tori no Ichi is the “Sanbon-jime” clapping ritual, which symbolizes the end of a successful transaction. This tradition is exclusive to Japanese Festivals, and it adds a touch of solemnity to the lively atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to participate, making it a highly interactive experience.
Furthermore, you’ll often hear the spirited shouts of “Masukotto!,” a chant symbolizing prosperity and encouragement, as merchants and attendees celebrate the conclusion of deals. These practices have been passed down through generations, adding to the charm of this Cultural Festival in Japan.
Must-See Attractions and Experiences
For those attending for the first time, the kumade market is a must-see. Each rake is intricately designed, often adorned with lucky symbols like Daruma dolls or gold coins. Don’t forget to take part in the Tejime ceremony after purchasing one!
Another must-see is the Hanazono Shrine itself. The shrine’s historical significance and stunning architecture make it one of the top spots for experiencing Famous Japanese Festivals. At night, the shrine’s lanterns glow, creating a magical atmosphere that is perfect for photography and reflection.
How to Enjoy the Festival
Ways to Participate as a Visitor
While the festival is largely spiritual, there are plenty of ways to actively participate. Purchasing a kumade is one of the most meaningful experiences you can have. Even if you’re not buying, watching the sellers and buyers exchange traditional phrases and perform the Tejime is fascinating.
If you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in Japanese Festival Traditions, try wearing Japanese Festival Costumes such as a yukata or happi coat. This not only enhances your experience but also shows respect for the tradition.
Tips for Tourists
Visitors can enjoy the festival from various vantage points. If you’re interested in the most festive atmosphere, aim to visit during the evening when the shrine and streets are illuminated. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the morning hours offer a quieter, more intimate atmosphere.
Don’t forget to bring cash as most of the stalls and events are cash-only. Comfortable shoes are also recommended as you’ll be walking quite a bit.
Recommended Dress and Items
As November in Tokyo can be quite chilly, it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Many locals attend in Japanese Festival Costumes, but a warm coat and scarf are just as practical. Bringing a small backpack or tote for carrying souvenirs and snacks is also a good idea.
Best Viewing Spots
The best spots to fully experience the festival are near the entrance of Hanazono Shrine. From here, you can watch the processions, enjoy performances, and shop for your kumade. Another prime location is along the Yasukuni-dori, where many of the food stalls and markets are set up.
Food and Souvenirs
Traditional Foods and Drinks at the Festival
The Tori no Ichi festival isn’t just about spiritual blessings—it’s also a great place to experience Japanese Food Festivals. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of street food, from grilled squid to yakisoba. Traditional sweets like taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes filled with red bean paste) are also popular during the festival.
Hot sake and amazake (a sweet, low-alcohol rice drink) are the perfect beverages to keep warm during the chilly November nights. These drinks not only warm you up but also add to the festive atmosphere of the event.
Recommended Souvenirs and Local Specialties
Aside from the iconic kumade, visitors can purchase various lucky charms, such as Daruma dolls and small talismans. These souvenirs make perfect gifts and are believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead.
Conclusion
The Tori no Ichi at Hanazono Shrine offers an unforgettable glimpse into Traditional Japanese Festivals. Whether you’re fascinated by Japanese Festival Traditions, looking to purchase a lucky kumade, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of Japanese Street Festivals, this event is a must-visit. It’s no wonder that this festival ranks among the Best Festivals in Japan, drawing both locals and international visitors each year.
Access
Access to Hanazono Shrine
By Train
Hanazono Shrine is conveniently located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and is easily accessible via several train lines. The nearest station is Shinjuku-Sanchome Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line, and Toei Shinjuku Line. From Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, take Exit E2, and the shrine is a 5-minute walk.
Alternatively, Shinjuku Station—one of the major transportation hubs in Tokyo—is about a 10-minute walk from the shrine. Shinjuku Station is serviced by multiple lines, including the JR Yamanote Line, JR Chuo Line, Odakyu Line, and Keio Line.
By Bus
Several bus routes pass near Hanazono Shrine. You can take the Toei Bus and get off at Shinjuku Sanchome Bus Stop, which is a short 5-minute walk to the shrine. From central Tokyo, buses may take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
From Major Cities
From Tokyo Station, take the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line directly to Shinjuku-Sanchome Station. The total journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
If you’re traveling from Narita Airport, take the Narita Express to Shinjuku Station. The ride is about 90 minutes, followed by a 10-minute walk to the shrine.
From Haneda Airport, take the Tokyo Monorail to Hamamatsucho Station, then transfer to the JR Yamanote Line toward Shinjuku. The entire trip takes around 50 minutes.
