Known affectionately by the locals in Tokyo’s western suburb of Fuchu as the chestnut festival, this annual autumn celebration is one of Okunitama Shrine’s key events.
The festival is named after the region’s cultivation of quality chestnuts. It was born during the establishment of Musashi Sosha Rokuso Shrine (Okunitama Shrine’s predecessor), where sacred Kagura ceremonial dances were first performed. As the chestnut season happened to overlap with the Kagura season, the ‘chestnut’ name stuck around.
When visiting the shrine from the main torii gate entrance, you’ll be greeted by a path lined with 260 beautifully lit lanterns decorated with hand-drawn pictures. Once inside, the festival comes alive with a host of food and drink stalls offering savoury matsuri grub and sweets.