🎎 Darkness Festival

The annual grand festival of the Ōkunitama Shrine located in Fuchū City, Tokyo. Originating from the "Kokufu Matsuri" of Musashi Province, it is a celebration with a history of over a thousand years and has been designated as an intangible folk cultural asset of Tokyo. Held annually from April 30 to May 6 for a period of seven days, various Shinto rituals take place, among which the most lively and grand is the "Mikoshi Togyo" on May 5. As the signal of fireworks is fired, six large drums sound, and eight portable shrines proceed to "Gosho Tabi" (the intersection of the old Kōshū Highway and Fuchū Street). The name "Kurayami Matsuri" comes from the fact that this "Mikoshi Togyo" ceremony was historically conducted on dark streets with all lights extinguished. Additionally, there is the "Keiba-shiki" (Horse Racing Style) on May 3, where six horses gallop back and forth on the old Kōshū Highway, and the "Dashi Gyoretsu" (Float Parade) on May 4, featuring up to 22 floats, both of which are also worth seeing. During the festival, around 500 stalls are set up, creating a bustling atmosphere, and many visitors come for the "Kanto Oki Ueki Market" held simultaneously in the area, making the local festival even more vibrant.

With a history of over a thousand years, it is the annual grand festival of the Ōkunitama Shrine. It takes place from April 30 to May 6 each year, lasting for seven days. In ancient times, the rituals were held on dark streets, hence the name "Kurayami Matsuri" (Darkness Festival). The procession of the large drum and the portable shrine, known as "Mikoshi Togyo," is the most spectacular and must-see event.