Tori no Ichi 1 @ Hanazono Shrine

Tori no Ichi (Cock Fair) is a vibrant traditional festival held annually in November at Hanazono Shrine in Shinjuku. This event is dedicated to the deity Yamato Takeru no Mikoto and is celebrated on the “Days of the Rooster” according to the zodiac calendar. Depending on the year, these auspicious days occur either twice or three times during the month. In years where the calendar dictates a third event, known as San-no-Tori, local folklore warns of an increased risk of fires. Shinjuku fire brigades and shrine officials maintain high vigilance, though the third fair remains just as festive and popular as the others.

The festival’s primary draw is the sale of kumade, or lucky bamboo rakes. These are ornately decorated with masks of Otafuku and gold coins to “rake in” prosperity. When a large rake is purchased, vendors perform a rhythmic ceremonial clapping called tejime to bless the buyer’s business. Hundreds of stalls line the shrine approach, offering traditional street foods and the signature kashira-imo. As evening falls, the glow of thousands of paper lanterns creates a spectacular atmosphere, attracting business owners seeking good fortune for the next year. This celebration is a cornerstone of Shinjuku’s unique historic cultural identity.