Tokyo Tama Tourist Site

Every November, on the “Days of the Rooster” (Tori-no-hi) according to the traditional Chinese zodiac calendar, shrines across Japan hold lively festivals known as “Tori-no-Ichi.” These events take place every twelve days throughout the month, celebrating the annual festival of shrines named “Otori.” Stalls selling decorative rakes (*kumade*), believed to bring good fortune, line the shrine grounds.

The origins of this tradition are said to date back to the Edo period, when farmers offered roosters in gratitude for a bountiful harvest. Over time, the celebration evolved into a bustling market welcoming visitors who seek good luck and prosperity for the coming year.

What Is the “Tori-no-Ichi” at Okunitama Shrine?

Within the precincts of Okunitama Shrine in Fuchu City stands a smaller sub-shrine, Otori Shrine, located on the west side of the main hall. Normally quiet and serene, its grounds come alive on the Day of the Rooster, illuminated with lanterns and filled with offerings that mark this special occasion.

Along the approach to Okunitama Shrine, four *kumade* merchants set up shop on both sides of the path, offering rakes ranging in size from palm-sized charms to massive ones carried over the shoulder. Originally, these rakes symbolized a wish for good harvests, but over time they came to be decorated with symbols of good fortune?such as *Otafuku* (the smiling woman), rice bales, sea bream, gold coins, and figures of the gods Daikokuten and Ebisu. Today, the *kumade* represents prosperity in business and good luck.

When you purchase a rake, the seller often attaches a small sheaf of rice, a charming tradition said to echo its agricultural roots.

Praying for Prosperity with the Lucky Rake

Some visitors return each year to buy from the same stall, while others enjoy browsing and chatting with the vendors before making their choice. Once a sale is made, the deal is sealed with the rhythmic “tejime” hand claps, followed by a cheerful farewell: *“Yoi otoshi o!”* ? “Have a good year!”

The *kumade* stalls at Okunitama Shrine are typically open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., though hours may vary by vendor. *Kumade* can also be obtained directly at Otori Shrine. Usually, both the First Tori (Ichi-no-Tori) and Second Tori (Ni-no-Tori) festivals are held in November. Updated schedules can always be found on the shrine’s official website.

Event Period	November 12
Access	5-minute walk from JR Musashino Line / Nambu Line Fuchu-Hommachi Station
Website	https://www.ookunitamajinja.or.jp/ This article was brought to you by the editorial team of “Another TOKYO TAMA,” operated by the Tama Tourism Promotion Council, which provides sightseeing information for Fuchu City and the wider Tama area.
Discover more about the Tama region	https://at-tama.tokyo/lang_en/ Photos courtesy of Takako Shigegaki