Tako-Ichi: The Kite Market Festival

This time, I attended the event held in February 2025.

A Festival Born from a Prayer for Fire Prevention

In winter, the air becomes dry, and with brittle branches and small flames, the risk of fire increases. Japan is no exception to this danger. Tako-Ichi, the Kite Market Festival, was born from prayers to prevent such disasters.

Oji Inari Shrine

Located in Kita Ward, Tokyo, Oji Inari Shrine is one of Japan’s three major Inari shrines. In Japan, there are many different types of shrines, each dedicated to a specific deity. Among them, fox deities hold significant influence, and Oji Inari Shrine is one of the top three shrines dedicated to fox spirits, making it a place of great historical and spiritual importance.

What is Tako-Ichi?

Tako-Ichi is a traditional event that has been held since the Edo period. At that time, most houses in Edo (now Tokyo) were built of wood, making the city highly susceptible to fires.

Because strong winds could quickly turn a small fire into a disaster, people started using kites—soaring high into the sky, cutting through the wind—as protective charms against fire.

From this belief, people began purchasing Yakko-Dako (servant-shaped kites) from Oji Inari Shrine, calling them “Fire Prevention Kites” (Hibuse no Tako). Over time, Tako-Ichi became a major Edo-era tradition, attracting large crowds and lively street stalls selling food and goods.

Today, Tako-Ichi is held on two days each year: the first and second days of Uma (Horse) in February according to the lunar calendar. These days, known as Hatsu-Uma and Ni-no-Uma, mark the beginning of the festival. Every year, around 50,000 visitors gather during these two days.

Tako-Ichi in 2025

Since this year’s festival fell on a weekday, it was not as crowded as usual. Approaching the shrine, the scent of grilled street food and the sizzling sounds of cooking filled the air, making it hard to resist stopping for a bite.

Inside the shrine grounds, a special stall selling kites was set up. The atmosphere within the shrine was calm and serene, with a quiet, refreshing stillness. Visitors moved peacefully, and the overall mood was one of deep tranquility.

The kites were handcrafted using traditional Japanese materials such as washi (Japanese paper) and bamboo, showcasing the artisans’ craftsmanship. Although fewer people fly kites nowadays, many of the kites sold at the market were designed for decorative purposes, such as being displayed on household altars.

The Variety of Kites

The standard shape of a Japanese kite is diamond-shaped, but some are designed in the shape of a human with outstretched arms. The front of the kites features a variety of designs, often incorporating auspicious symbols such as the zodiac animal of the year, dragons and other mythical creatures, as well as traditional gods and lucky charms.

Tako-Ichi is held annually, offering a wonderful opportunity to experience this unique tradition. If you ever have the chance, why not visit and witness this fascinating cultural event for yourself?

10:00 to 18:00

Free