Known in Japanese as the Ōtori Matsuri (大酉祭), this annual event draws thousands of people from all over Japan who come to pray for good fortune, business success, and prosperity for the coming year.
If you’re visiting Tokyo in November and want to experience a truly local festival that captures the spirit of Japan’s traditions and energy, the Tori-no-Ichi Festival at Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku is an unforgettable experience.
A Festival of Fortune and Tradition
The Tori-no-Ichi Festival is held every November on the Days of the Rooster (Tori no Hi) according to the Chinese zodiac calendar. There are usually two or three such days in November, and the festival takes place on each of them, creating multiple opportunities to join the celebration. The tradition dates back to the Edo period (17th century), originally starting at Otori Shrine in Asakusa, but it later spread to other shrines across Japan, including Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku.
The festival’s main purpose is to express gratitude for the year’s blessings and to pray for continued success, happiness, and safety in the future. Merchants, business owners, and even artists come to the shrine to buy decorative bamboo rakes (kumade) that symbolize “raking in good fortune.”
The Famous Lucky Rakes (Kumade)
One of the most exciting parts of the festival is the rows of stalls selling these beautifully decorated rakes, made of bamboo and adorned with gold coins, masks, lucky gods, rice bales, and miniature treasures. Each design is unique, ranging from small, simple ones to enormous kumade that can cost hundreds of dollars.
Buying a kumade is more than just shopping—it’s a cultural ritual. When a purchase is made, the vendor and customer perform a clapping ceremony called “Sanbon-jime,” clapping three times in rhythm to celebrate the new connection and wish for good luck. The sound of these claps echoing through the crowded shrine grounds adds to the lively and festive atmosphere.
A Lively Night in Shinjuku
During the Tori-no-Ichi Festival, the usually busy streets of Shinjuku’s Kabukichō and Golden Gai areas take on an even more energetic feel. Hanazono Shrine is brightly illuminated, and the air is filled with the smell of delicious street food. Visitors can enjoy classic Japanese festival snacks such as takoyaki (octopus balls), yakisoba (fried noodles), taiyaki (fish-shaped cakes), and amazake (sweet rice drink)—perfect for warming up on a chilly November evening.
Many Tokyo locals visit the festival after work, dressed in business suits, to pray for a successful year in business. It’s fascinating to see both the modern and traditional sides of Japan come together in one place—Shinjuku’s neon skyline as a backdrop to centuries-old Shinto rituals.
When and Where
- Location: Hanazono Shrine (花園神社), 5-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
- Nearest Station: Shinjuku-Sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi, Fukutoshin, and Shinjuku Lines) — about a 5-minute walk.
- Festival Dates: Held on the Days of the Rooster in November (usually two or three days; dates change annually).
- Hours: The festival typically starts in the morning and continues until late at night, with the liveliest atmosphere after sunset.
Hanazono Shrine Tori-no-Ichi Festival 2025 – Event Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Hanazono Shrine Tori-no-Ichi Festival (Ōtori Matsuri) |
| Dates | First Tori (Ichi-no-Tori): Eve Festival: Tuesday, November 11, 2025 Main Festival: Wednesday, November 12, 2025 Second Tori (Ni-no-Tori): Eve Festival: Sunday, November 23, 2025 Main Festival: Monday, November 24, 2025 |
| Venue | Hanazono Shrine (花園神社) |
| Location | 5-17-3 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo |
| Nearest Stations | – Shinjuku-sanchome Station (Tokyo Metro Marunouchi, Fukutoshin & Shinjuku Lines) – Seibu Shinjuku Station (Seibu Shinjuku Line) – Shinjuku Station (JR Lines & others) |
| Access | About a 5–10 minute walk from Shinjuku-sanchome Station. Easily accessible from central Tokyo. |
| Admission | Free entry (donations appreciated at the shrine). |
Tips for Visitors
- Go at Night for the Atmosphere
The glowing lanterns, vibrant stalls, and lively crowds create a magical setting. It’s also when most visitors come, so you can experience the full energy of the event. - Bring Cash
Many vendors and food stalls only accept cash. Coins and small bills are especially convenient. - Buy a Kumade for Good Luck
Even if you choose a small one, it’s a meaningful souvenir that represents prosperity and happiness. Be sure to take part in the clapping ritual when you purchase it! - Enjoy Local Food
Festival stalls offer a chance to try Japanese comfort foods in a fun, outdoor setting. Don’t miss the opportunity to snack and stroll like a local. - Respect the Shrine
While it’s a lively event, Hanazono Shrine remains a sacred space. Bow once before entering the torii gate, and if you wish, offer a coin and a short prayer at the main shrine.
A Celebration That Connects Past and Present
The Hanazono Shrine’s Tori-no-Ichi Festival is more than just a local event—it’s a cultural bridge that connects the historic Edo traditions with modern-day Tokyo life. The sight of businessmen, students, and tourists all lining up to pray for good luck and success shows how these customs still hold deep meaning in Japanese society.
Even after the festival, many visitors keep their kumade displayed at home or in their workplace throughout the year, as a reminder of their wishes for success and happiness. The following year, they return to the shrine to replace it with a new one—continuing the cycle of gratitude and hope.
Why You Should Visit
For foreign visitors, the Tori-no-Ichi Festival at Hanazono Shrine offers an immersive experience of authentic Japanese culture right in the center of Tokyo. It’s a chance to see traditional prayers, colorful crafts, festive food, and joyful crowds all in one night. Unlike some larger tourist events, this festival retains its local charm and deep spiritual meaning.
Whether you come to make a wish, take photos of the dazzling kumade, or simply enjoy the festive atmosphere, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how Japan celebrates the balance of tradition, luck, and community.
Hanazono Shrine’s Tori-no-Ichi Festival is a rare opportunity to experience Tokyo’s vibrant culture beyond the modern skyscrapers and shopping districts. If you’re in Japan in November, don’t miss this spirited and heartwarming celebration of fortune in the very heart of Shinjuku.
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