In the vast urban fabric of Tokyo, Shinto shrines occupy a singular place. Some are discreet, others majestic. The Tokyo Jissha, or “ten Tokyo shrines”, are a set chosen to accompany the prosperity of the capital since the Meiji era. Today, this pilgrimage attracts both lovers of spirituality and curious travellers to discover a more intimate facet of the city.

The origins of Tokyo Jissha

The Tokyo Jissha (, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , On November 8, 1868, Emperor Meiji selected them to form a symbolic protective circle to support the new capital of Japan, transferred from Edo to Tokyo. These shrines then receive the status of shakaku, an official distinction.

Over the decades, these places have become stages of the Jissha-Meguri pilgrimage. Despite the destruction of the Second World War, the pilgrimage regained its popularity from 1975. Today, many visitors collectGoshuin(calligraphed rings) of each of these shrines in aGoshuin-chō(dedicated notebook), marking the completion of this journey.

Nezu-jinja

Located in the Nezu district (Bunkyō), Nezu-jinja is one of the oldest shrines in Tokyo. It dates from the early 18th century. Ranked important cultural, it is famous for its festival of azaleas (from the end of April to May) and its rows of vermilion torii that recall the Fushimi Inari shrine in Kyoto.

A gathering place for literary lovers, it was frequented by Sōseki Natsume and Mori Easily accessible from the Nezu or Todai-mae stations, the sanctuary lends itself to a peaceful visit.

Kanda-myōjin

In Sotokanda, Chiyoda, Kanda-myōjin honours Taira no Masakado, a historical figure of the tenth century. This sanctuary is also dedicated to the divinities of luck, Daikokuten and Ebisu. It attracts many traders and business leaders, especially during the Hatsumōde (first visit of the year).

Kanda-myōjin is also popular with Japanese animation fans. Some scenes of animeLove Live!They were shot. The sanctuary is within walking distance of Ochanomizu and Akihabara stations.

Kameido-tenjinja

In the Kameido district (Kōtō), this shrine worships Sugawara no Michizane, divinity of studies. It is particularly attended by students during the examination period.

In the spring, the fluffy glycines transform the site into a fairytale picture. Access is easy from Kinshichō or Kameido stations.

Ji-jinja

This sanctuary, located in His immense 600-year-old ginkgo is classified as Tokyo’s cultural property.

Young couples and pregnant women often go there. The resort is just steps from the sanctuary.

Hie-jinja

Located in Nagata-chō, Chiyoda, Hie-jinja hosts many family ceremonies: weddings, rites for newborns (miyamairi), andshichi-go-san.

The sanctuary also plays a key role at Sannō Matsuri, one of the three major Tokyo festivals. It is within minutes from Akasaka Station.

Tomioka Hachiman-gū

Located in Tomioka (Kōtō), this sanctuary is considered the cradle of the sumo. He organizes ceremonies in honour of the wrestlers promoted to the rank ofyokozuna. You can also admire the greatestMikoshi(portable purse) of Japan.

In the summer, the site is anime during the Tomioka Hachiman Matsuri, a major festival. Monzen-Nakachō station is nearby.

Shiba-daijin-gū

In the heart of Shiba (Minato), this shrine nicknamed “the Tokyo Ise-jingū” celebrates harmony between beings. Very frequented by local employees, it is known to promote personal and professional relations.

It is two minutes from Daimon Station. The visit can be combined with that of the nearby Zōjō-ji temple.

Hakusan-jinja

This family sanctuary in Hakusan (Bunkyō) attracts visitors during the hortensia festival in June. It is dedicated to Kikurihime no

It is easily accessed from Hakusan station. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a popular stop.

Shinagawa-jinja

Located in Kita-Shinagawa (Shinagawa), this sanctuary houses Daikokuten, the deity of fortune. He owns afujizuka, miniature replica of Mount Fuji, which visitors can climb.

A popular custom is to wash money in a source of the sanctuary, hoping to see it multiply. Access is simple from Shimbamba station.

Akasaka Hikawa-jinja

In the heart of Akasaka (Minato), this sanctuary is associated with luck in love and domestic happiness. It is remarkable for its longevity: it survived the earthquakes and bombings of the Second World War.

Surrounded by skyscrapers, the sanctuary offers a haven of calm, five minutes from Roppongi station.

Visiting the Tokyo Jissha allows you to explore various facets of the capital, from its business districts to its more residential areas. Following this pilgrimage, we discover not only the religious history of Tokyo, but also its ever-changing urban fabric. Each sanctuary reveals a singular atmosphere and invites an encounter with the spiritual daily life of the Tokyoites.

Si cet article vous a apporté des informations utiles et peut aider d’autres voyageurs à préparer leur séjour, un avis Google en cliquant sur l’image suivante sera toujours apprécié.

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