Tokyo Kichijoji: Mikoshi Parade Festival Tour & Shrine Walk

Summary

Kichijoji’s festival spirit, mikoshi parades, shrine stories & lively streets

You’ll feel Kichijoji’s festival energy as you join locals carrying a Mikoshi shrine through lively streets, try on a traditional jacket, and hear real stories from your guide at Musashino Hachimangu Shrine. Taste the atmosphere (and maybe some street food), walk among chanting crowds, and leave with memories that stick long after the drums fade.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest: I didn’t expect to sweat this much in Tokyo. The first thing that hit me at the Kichijoji Autumn Festival wasn’t the color or noise—it was the weight of the Mikoshi on my shoulder. Our guide, Sato-san, handed me a hanten jacket and grinned like he knew what was coming. “You carry with your heart,” he said. I laughed, but when we started moving through those narrow shopping streets—drums thumping, people shouting “wasshoi!”—I realized he meant it. The rhythm just pulls you along. I could smell grilled yakitori somewhere behind a crowd of kids waving paper fans.

We passed Musashino Hachimangu Shrine on our way—the old wooden beams dark and cool compared to the hot street outside. Sato-san told us how this place survived fires and centuries, and how each district brings their own style to carrying the Mikoshi. There was this one group with bright blue jackets who chanted louder than anyone else; I tried to copy their steps but nearly tripped over my own feet (which got a laugh from some local aunties). It’s not just a show for tourists—you’re really in it with everyone else.

The best part? When all eleven Mikoshi gathered in one spot—shoulders pressed together, sweat dripping down faces, everyone yelling in time. For a second it felt like all of Kichijoji was vibrating underfoot. Later we wandered back through quieter alleys, festival music still echoing behind us. I still think about that moment when everything stopped except for the sound of bells and chanting—kind of wild how quickly you can feel part of something so old.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Carry Mikoshi in Kichijoji Festival

• Wear Hanten festival jacket
• Carry Mikoshi through streets
• Experience festival energy and rhythm

Day 2 — Visit Shrine and See Mikoshi Display

• Visit Musashino Hachimangu Shrine
• Learn shrine history and festival
• Stroll town in festive spirit
• Watch all Mikoshi demonstration

Top questions

Can I participate in carrying the Mikoshi during the festival?

Yes, on September 12 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., you can join locals in carrying a Mikoshi through Kichijoji’s streets.

Is there an English-speaking guide included?

Yes, your tour includes a professional local guide who shares stories and explains traditions during the festival.

Where does the tour take place?

The tour is in Kichijoji, Tokyo—about 15 minutes by train from Shibuya or Shinjuku.

Do I get to wear traditional clothing during the parade?

Yes, you’ll wear a hanten festival jacket while carrying the Mikoshi on September 12.

What is Musashino Hachimangu Shrine?

It’s Kichijoji’s guardian shrine dating back to the 8th century; you’ll visit it and learn its history during the tour.

Is lunch or food included in this tour?

No meals are included, but you’ll experience street food aromas and can buy snacks during the festival.

Are there any physical requirements for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy due to physical activity involved.

Is this suitable for families with children?

Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; otherwise it’s suitable for all fitness levels able to walk and stand for periods.

What’s included

Your day comes with guidance from a professional local guide who helps you join in carrying a Mikoshi (with traditional jacket provided), explores Musashino Hachimangu Shrine with you, and leads strolls through Kichijoji’s festive streets—public transport options make getting there easy too.