Hanazono Shrine Grand Festival

2026 is an Omote-matsuri year, featuring the impressive processional of the Honsha Mikoshi and Raiden Mikoshi along Meiji-dori to Shinjuku-dori. The shrine grounds lined with about 100 food stalls and an old-fashioned sideshow tent create a uniquely atmospheric scene. The blend of Shinjuku's urban landscape with traditional festival culture is distinctive.

Hanazono Shrine has served as the guardian deity of Shinjuku since before Tokugawa Ieyasu entered Edo. The annual May grand festival alternates between 'Omote-matsuri' with mikoshi procession in even years and 'Kage-matsuri' in odd years.

Hanazono Shrine has existed since before 1590 when Tokugawa Ieyasu entered Edo, believed to have been enshrined from Yoshino Mountain in Yamato Province. As the guardian deity of Naito Shinjuku, grand festivals have been held since the Edo period. Originally an Inari shrine with festivals on February's first Day of the Horse.

Right at Exit E2 of Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi/Fukutoshin Lines, Toei Shinjuku Line). 7 minutes on foot from Shinjuku Station East Exit (JR, Odakyu, Keio).

Sunday May 24 when the mikoshi procession takes place is especially crowded. Food stalls operate until around 10 PM, with the evening hours being the liveliest. For a more relaxed experience, try the weekday eve-of-festival ceremony.

The festival goes on rain or shine. The grounds have steps, so take care with strollers and wheelchairs. Cash is the standard for food stalls. Contact: Hanazono Shrine (TEL: 03-3209-5265).