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If you’re planning to visit Asakusa in November, don’t miss the annual Tori no Ichi festival held at Asakusa’s Ootori Shrine. Although it usually takes place in November, the exact dates may be different every year. This lively festival has been passed down since the Edo period. It fills the shrine grounds and surrounding streets with countless glittering kumade (decorative bamboo rakes), creating a dazzling and festive atmosphere.
Originally made from bamboo and used as a rake, the kumade has evolved into a lucky charm believed to bring good fortune and prosperity. These decorative rakes are adorned with symbols of luck such as gold coins, rice bags, the Seven Lucky Gods, and even red sea breams representing abundance. They come in all sizes — from palm-sized to ones larger than your face — each stall showcases its own unique vibe. When choosing your kumade, trust your intuition and pick the one that feels “meant for you”. Every single piece is carefully handcrafted by artisans, and if you purchase a larger kumade, the vendor will often celebrate with you by performing the traditional “Sanbon-jime” hand-clapping ritual, instantly filling the air with a joyful, festive spirit.
The festival runs for 24 hours, starting at midnight and continuing until the following noon. The nighttime Tori no Ichi is especially lively with lanterns illuminate the streets, vendors call out along the bustling stalls, and the air will fill with the mouthwatering aromas of grilled yakitori, squid, and sweet treats. As you stroll, eat, and take in the sights, you’ll be immersed in the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional Japanese festival.
For an even more authentic experience, try attending Tori no Ichi dressed in a kimono from Kimono Rental Yae ! Strolling through the lantern-lit streets while choosing your kumade will make you feel the charm of Edo-style culture even more deeply—and you’ll look absolutely stunning in photos!
Warm Reminder
🌸 Be sure to visit Ootori Shrine to offer your prayers first (there are usually large crowds, so please expect to wait in line) before choosing your kumade—it symbolizes bringing home good fortune with you.
🌸 For personal purchases, there’s no need to buy a large kumade—the bigger ones are usually bought by business owners. For individuals, the most important thing is finding the one that feels like it’s “meant for you.”
🌸 Don’t miss the experience of clapping together with the stall owner to celebrate—this is defiantly the spirit of Tori no Ichi’s lively atmosphere!
Want to experience the true charm of an authentic Edo-style festival ? Come to the Tori no Ichi at Ootori Shrine ! Pick out your very own kumade and bring home Happiness, Good Fortune, and the Vibrant Spirit of a Japanese festival. And if you attend in a kimono from Kimono Rental Yae, you’ll surely be the most dazzling presence on the streets!
2025 Festival Dates (vary each year)
🎋 First Tori: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
🎋 Second Tori: Monday, November 24, 2025