Travel Around Tokyo & Surroundings
Torino Ichi - a traditional fair for Lucky Charms!
TRAVEL TOPIC: B-Movie Style of Attractions in Tokyo
In Tokyo, there are many traditional festivals and events passed down from generation to generation, and the Torino Ichi Fair is one of those that have a history of nearly 360 years!
Torino Ichi Fair is an open air market selling lucky charms which are called Kumade It's been said that they bring you good fortunes and protect you from misfortunes. If you buy a lucky charm, place the Kumade in your house. It's also been said Kumade brings good fortune for business too, so, there are many companies that place Kumade in their offices.
Since Kumades are sold only at the Torino Ichi Fair, held in November every year. The fair is generally very crowded with people coming to buy a Kumade and to enjoy the spirited atmosphere which has splendid displays of hundreds of beautiful Kumades.
Torino Ichi is held 2 or 3 times in November, but the date varies each year, so you need to check every year. Torino Ichi is held at several Shrines and Temples in Tokyo.
If you are planing to go Tokyo during this time of period, why not drop by the Torino Ichi Fair to get lucky in the incoming new year.
Torino Ichi at Ootori Shrine (Near Asakusa) website
3-18-7 Senzoku Taito-ku Tokyo (On Kokusai Street)
The biggest Torino Ichi is held at this shrine. It is about 20 minutes walk from Asakusa Station. Minowa or Iriya Station of Hibiya Subway Line are also close by and is a 10 minute walk from both stations. http://www.otorisama.or.jp/basho.html (in Japanese only)
Held in November
Open: From Midnight to Midnight
Th Kumade markets look beautiful especially in the evening.
Hanazono Shrine (in Shinjuku)
5-17-3 Shinjuku Shinjuku-ku Tokyo
Hanazono Shrine is located near Shinjuku station and the accessibility is good even for tourists. A 7 min walk from East Exit of JR Shinjuku Station, close to the Isetan department store. http://www.hanazono-jinja.or.jp/mt/top/ (in Japanese only)
