2018 Summer Festival

Tokyo Mikoshi Carrying on August 5

What is Mikoshi? Why carry it?

A Mikoshi is a portable Shinto Shrine that is supposed to a divine palanquin (a vehicle for the deity). At a summer festival held in each neighborhood, the locals carry a Mikoshi for a parade. Today, Japanese people do this to reunite with neighbors and relatives and get back to one’s roots.

There is a quiet residential area in Ichigayayakuojimachi, Shinjuku. It is just 3 stops away from Shinjuku Station. On August 5th, 2018, the local community is going to hold a summer festival carrying a mikoshi for the first time in 4 years. You can be part of it this year. 

Summer Festival Mikoshi

Perks

  • Be a part of the local community celebrating summer. Mikoshi carrying is usually an exclusive event limited to the people living in the neighborhood. This is a rare chance for you. 
  • Great opportunity to appreciate the culture and history. You do not have to be religious and most of the people are not either. 
  • You will get to wear the Japanese traditional festival wear, Happi. This is subject to availability.

Anyone is welcomed to the event. Just note it’ll be a physical exercise to carry the Mikoshi and people take turns to carry the Mikoshi. Even if you are not up for carrying it,  just showing up at the festival will be worth checking out and seeing the real summer in Tokyo. 

Tokyo Mikoshi Carrying Info

  • Date: August 5th, 2018
  • Meeting time: 9 am
  • Nearest Station: Ushigome-yanagicho Station
  • Meet up point: 18 Ichigayayakuōjimachi Shinjuku
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Pirce: Free. Tips are welcomed to support the local community and event. 

Meeting Point Map

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