Ever wondered where the captivating sounds of traditional Japanese festival music originated? It might surprise you to learn we are standing at its very birthplace. Welcome to Kasai-jinja Shrine.
This shrine is not just another beautiful landmark. Kasai-jinja Shrine is a historical treasure. Founded in 1185, it has been a guardian of this region for centuries. Originally called Katori-gu, it later became known as Kasai-jinja Shrine. After World War II, it became a religious corporation.
The deities enshrined here are quite special. Futsunushi no kami is a symbol of the sword, used to defeat evil. People now worship him for achieving goals and success in studying. Yamatotakeru no mikoto, son of Emperor Keiko, is another deity. Legend says his spirit turned into a bird upon death. Finally, Tokugawa Ieyasu is also enshrined here. He was impressed by a puppet theater performance at Kasai-jinja Shrine. In 1591, he granted the shrine a red seal of certification. People now worship him for success in business and achieving goals.
Kasai-jinja Shrine’s connection to Matsuribayashi is significant. Nose Tamaki, a Shinto priest, started it all during the Kyouhou Period. He taught classical verses with tunes to young people. This was the origin of Matsuribayashi. It became popular as Kasaibayashi throughout the Kanto region. The Kasaibayashi Preservation Association was founded after World War II. It became an Intangible Cultural Treasure. Today, the music is still played. Practitioners rehearse monthly at Kasai-jinja Shrine. You can hear it during Tori no Ichi in November and Reitaisai in September. Performances take place at the old building Kaguraden.
Speaking of Tori no Ichi, this big festival happens in November. It is a precursor to the Japanese New Year. Tori means bird. It symbolizes Yamatotakeru-no-Mikoto. People buy Kumade, a rake-shaped talisman, hoping for good fortune. Before World War II, a karaoke tournament was held here during the festival.
Don’t miss the antique market if you are here on the first Saturday of the month. It runs from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Many different kinds of shops sell old pictures, kimonos, dishes, and clocks.
Kasai-jinja Shrine is more than just a place of worship. It is a cultural landmark. Admire the wooden drawings of Akouroushi and letters from Asano Nagayoshi. Do not forget the stone statue of Shouki and the big ginkgo tree. The Mikoshi of Kasai-jinja Shrine is a sight to behold. The shrine’s beautiful red buildings and guardian lion-dog statues add to its charm. The 6,000 square meter grounds offer seasonal beauty. You can see cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring. Lush greenery in summer is beautiful. The yellow ginkgo trees light up autumn. Also, the grounds have a shrine dedicated to Benten. Benten is deeply connected with economic fortune. It is said that stroking the statue of the white snake will bring you good fortune.
As you leave Kasai-jinja Shrine remember the echoes of Matsuribayashi. Remember the weight of history and the blessings of the deities. May your visit bring you good fortune and a deeper appreciation for Japanese culture.