Summer in Japan is often marked by the melodious chirping of cicadas, vibrant fireworks displays, and of course, the highly-anticipated Tanabata or Star Festival. During Tanabata, it’s customary to write one’s wish down on a strip of paper and hang it on a bamboo tree. Tanashi Shrine puts an adorable twist on this beloved custom by using colorful cloth dolls known as teru teru bozu. Tied to three sets of wooden frames, these dolls become a vibrant tunnel that Tanashi Shrine aptly calls, “Teru Teru Tunnel.”
Why Visit the Teru Teru Tunnel at Tanashi Shrine
- Cultural Uniqueness: Unlike mainstream Tanabata celebrations, Teru Teru Tunnel offers an uncommon twist on tradition, making it a magnet for cultural explorers.
- Instagrammable Moments: The vibrant colors and cute shapes make Teru Teru Tunnel photo and video perfect.
- Seasonal Significance: Visiting during Tanabata amplifies the experience, as the tunnel becomes a vibrant hub of wishes, dreams, and festive decor.
What is Teru Teru Bozu?
You may have seen them in Japanese anime or dramas — white dolls made of cloth or tissue paper, seemingly in the shape of a ghost and hanging by the neck near a windowsill. These dolls are called “teru teru bozu,” which roughly translates to “shiny monk.” Making them has been part of Japanese customs for hundreds of years as they are generally believed to bring upon good weather.
Piecing together the origin of teru teru bozu is a bit like solving a mystery. One theory takes us back to the Edo period, where children of farmers would hang these dolls with the hope of clear skies. Another theory links the practice to ancient China, involving a tale where a young girl is sacrificed and given a broom to sweep away rain clouds as she ascends to heaven. And if you’re in the mood for a darker tale, there’s a grim legend about a monk who lost his head—literally—after failing to deliver on a promise to stop the rain. His decapitated head was wrapped in cloth and hung up as a plea for better weather. How’s that for dramatic roots?
Whatever its origins may be, the teru teru bozu remains a prominent figure in Japan today. Mostly, though, the dolls are seen as cute ornaments, giving people hope that bright skies will come their way.
What is the Teru Teru Tunnel?
Imagine walking through a kaleidoscope of colors, each hue attached to a unique wish and an even more unique story. Welcome to the Teru Teru Tunnel, a seasonal wonder that lights up Tanashi Shrine during the magical months of June and July. This isn’t just any summer attraction; it’s a heartwarming celebration of Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival.
For about a month, visitors flock to the shrine to partake in a tradition that’s as creative as it is spiritual. You get to purchase a doll made of cloth, draw a face that reflects your mood, pen down a wish on a strip of paper, and finally, tie it all together onto a wooden frame. Voilà! You’ve just contributed to the creation of a mesmerizing tunnel that’s not just picture-perfect but also a tapestry of dreams and wishes.
Teru Teru Tunnel 2024
The 2024 dates for Teru Teru Tunnel are yet to be announced. In 2023, the attraction was available from June 17th (Sat) to July 10th (Mon).
Teru Teru Tunnel Photo Gallery
Teru Teru Tunnel Video
The following is a short video of Teru Teru Tunnel shot when I visited Tanashi Shrine in 2022.
How to Get to Tanashi Shrine
Tanashi Shrine (田無神社, Tanashi Jinja, たなし じんじゃ)
09:30 to 16:00
6-minute walk from the North Exit of Tanashi Station, Seibu Shinjuku Line
Official Website
