Dango-maki at night. Does that sound special to you? It is a unique event at Nozakihachiman Shrine.
Welcome to Nozakihachiman Shrine. This Shinto shrine is located in Tokyo in the city of Mitaka. Let me tell you more about this place.
Nozakihachiman Shrine’s history began in 1689. This was six years before Nozaki Village was established. Back then the area was part of the territory of Jindaishi. Jindaishi is now in Chofu City. The priest of the local Toko-in Temple invited Hachiman Shrine.
The shrine enshrines Emperor Ojin. Emperor Ojin is also known as Hachiman-shin.
Nozakihachiman Shrine hosts several annual events. New Year’s Day sees the Gantan-sai festival. A prayer festival takes place on February 21st. The main festival is on September 15th. It has been changed to Respect for the Aged Day. A new harvest festival is held on November 21st.
The shrine has smaller shrines within its grounds. These include Inari Shrine and Yakushi-do Hall.
One special event is the Dango-maki. It is held annually on October 8th. People gather at the Yakushi-do Hall. They come to receive dumplings called dango. About 7200 dumplings are made for this event.
These dumplings are believed to cure illnesses. Especially eye diseases. Dumplings that fall on the ground are called Omedama. These are said to be particularly effective.
In the past the dumplings were scattered. People would scramble to pick them up. Since the pandemic the dumplings are handed out in bags. This is a safer way to distribute them. People still look forward to this annual event.
The grounds of Nozakihachiman Shrine are triangular. Some find this layout mysterious. The shrine faces a major thoroughfare. Yet it is a peaceful place. Nozakihachiman Shrine offers a glimpse into local traditions.