The “Shrines” category of the Tokyo Shitamachi Guide highlights the rich cultural and historical heritage of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples located in Tokyo’s Shitamachi area. This vibrant region, situated along and east of the Sumida River, offers countless opportunities to explore Tokyo’s traditional charm.
In this article, we focus on Asakusa Shrine, a renowned Shinto shrine in Asakusa, Taito Ward. Nestled right beside the iconic Sensoji Temple—Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temple—Asakusa Shrine shares a deeply intertwined history with its neighbor. Until 1868, both were part of the same religious institution, reflecting their longstanding spiritual connection.
Asakusa Shrine, affectionately called “Sanja-sama” (Lord Sanja) by locals, is dedicated to Sanja Gongen, the deified three founders of Sensoji Temple. Each May, the shrine hosts the grand Sanja Matsuri, one of Japan’s largest and most vibrant festivals. For instance, in 2017, it drew over 2 million visitors, as cited by Wikipedia.
This article will provide you with clear and engaging insights into Asakusa Shrine, covering topics such as:
- Historical Background
- Enshrined Deities
- Key Highlights
- Transportation Tips
- And more!
Whether you’re planning a visit or simply eager to learn more, this guide offers everything you need to enhance your understanding and experience of Asakusa Shrine.
History of Asakusa Shrine
The origins of Asakusa Shrine date back to the 7th century, deeply intertwined with the founding of Sensoji Temple, its neighboring Buddhist temple.
The Discovery of Sho-Kannon Bosatsu
On March 18, 628, two fishermen, Hinokuma Hamanari and Hinokuma Takenari, were casting their nets into the Sumida River when they retrieved an unusual object—a Buddha statue. At the time, they didn’t realize the significance of their find.
The brothers showed the statue to Haji Manakachi, a local samurai. He identified the figure as Sho-Kannon Bosatsu, the original form of Kannon Bosatsu, the Buddhist deity of compassion. Sho-Kannon Bosatsu is revered for transforming into various forms to empathize with human suffering.
The Hinokuma brothers and local residents constructed a modest temple dedicated to Sho-Kannon Bosatsu. Later, Haji Manakachi became a Buddhist monk, converting his residence into a temple to enshrine the statue. This marked the beginning of Sensoji Temple.
The Birth of Asakusa Shrine
In the 12th century, a divine message was conveyed to Haji Manakachi’s descendants through Sho-Kannon Bosatsu:
“Your ancestors rescued me from the river and dedicated a temple in my honor. Their deeds should be revered. Enshrine them as local deities—Sanja Gongen—beside Sensoji Temple to ensure greater prosperity for the area.”
Following this message, the descendants of the Hinokuma brothers and Haji Manakachi enshrined their ancestors as the three local deities of Sanja Gongen. This marked the beginning of Asakusa Shrine, originally called Sanja Gongensha (Shrine of Sanja Gongen).
Independence and Renaming
In 1868, the Meiji government introduced the Shinbutsu Bunri policy, which aimed to separate Shintoism and Buddhism. Under this policy, Sanja Gongensha gained independence from Sensoji Temple and was renamed Sanja Myojinsha.
In 1873, the shrine underwent another name change, becoming the Asakusa Shrine we know today.
Enshrined Deities of Asakusa Shrine
Asakusa Shrine is home to several Shinto deities, each offering unique blessings. The shrine’s primary deity is Sanja Gongen, but there are other notable enshrined deities as well.
Sanja Gongen (三社権現)
Sanja Gongen represents the deification of three individuals crucial to the founding of Sensoji Temple:
- Haji Manakachi
- Hinokuma Hamanari
- Hinokuma Takenari
These three ancestors are honored for their pivotal roles in establishing the temple and their contributions to the prosperity of the region.
Toshogu (東照宮)
Toshogu, also known as Tosho Daigongen, is the deification of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. Asakusa Shrine began enshrining Toshogu in 1649.
Blessings of Toshogu:
- Flourishing career
- Business prosperity
- Household safety
- Wish fulfillment
Okuninushi (大国主)
Also known as Onamuchi, Okuninushi is a deity with roots in Japanese mythology. In the tale “The Hare of Inaba,” Okuninushi heals a hare, establishing his reputation as a god of medicine.
Blessings of Okuninushi:
- Business prosperity
- Disease cure
- Marital harmony
Ebisu (恵比寿)
Ebisu, one of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods, is associated with fishing and commerce. He is also identified with Kotoshironushi, another Shinto deity.
Blessings of Ebisu:
- Abundant catch
- Business prosperity
- Economic fortune
- Household safety
Ukanomitama (宇迦之御魂)
At Hikan Inari Shrine, a small shrine within Asakusa Shrine’s precincts, Ukanomitama is enshrined. This deity is often associated with Inari, another Shinto deity.
Ukanomitama’s Blessings:
- Good harvests
- Business prosperity
- Household safety
- Improvement in performance arts
Konohanasakuya-Hime (木花咲耶姫)
Asakusa Fuji Sengen Shrine, a subordinate shrine of Asakusa Shrine, is dedicated to Konohanasakuya-Hime, a goddess symbolizing Mt. Fuji and beauty. The word “sakura” (cherry blossoms) is said to derive from her name.
Blessings of Konohanasakuya-Hime:
- Fire calamity prevention
- Safe delivery
- Pregnancy support
Highlights of Asakusa Shrine
The Shrine Building
The shrine building of Asakusa Shrine was constructed in 1649 under the patronage of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third Shogun of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The structure follows the Gongen Zukuri architectural style, which interconnects three buildings under the same roof:
- Honden: The main building where the deities are enshrined.
- Heiden: The building used for ceremonies.
- Haiden: The worship hall.
The shrine’s exterior is painted with Urushi lacquer and adorned with vibrant depictions of mythical beasts such as Kirin and Hiryu. Despite its age, the shrine has retained its original form for over 370 years, even surviving numerous disasters and wars. It was officially designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1951.
The Sanja Matsuri
The Sanja Matsuri is Asakusa Shrine’s annual festival, held on the third weekend of May. With a history spanning over 700 years, this event is among the most significant festivals in Japan.
The highlight of the festival is the Mikoshi Togyo, a grand parade featuring over 100 portable shrines (mikoshi). The lively atmosphere draws millions of visitors each year—more than 2 million people attended in 2017.
Hikan Inari Shrine
Located within the precincts of Asakusa Shrine, Hikan Inari Shrine is a small but notable shrine managed by Asakusa Shrine. Positioned to the right of the worship hall, it can be easily overlooked.
Shinmon Tatsugoro, a prominent local fire brigade leader, contributed to its construction. As with many Inari shrines, charming fox statues can be found throughout its grounds.
Asakusa Fuji Sengen Shrine
A short 5-minute walk from Asakusa Shrine lies Asakusa Fuji Sengen Shrine, which enshrines Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of Mt. Fuji. This shrine is affectionately referred to as “O-Fuji-San” by locals.
The annual plant fair “O-Fuji-San no Ueki-Ichi” is held on the last Saturday and Sunday of May and June, becoming a beloved early summer tradition alongside the Hydrangea Festival at Chokokuji Temple.
The Seven Lucky Gods of Asakusa
Ebisu, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, is enshrined at Asakusa Shrine. The Seven Lucky Gods of Asakusa refers to deities housed in nine shrines and temples across Taito Ward and Arakawa Ward.
Visiting these locations is a popular activity for tourists exploring the Asakusa area year-round.
Asakusa Hatsuka Ebisu
Celebrating the first Ebisu Day of the year, Asakusa Hatsuka Ebisu is held annually on January 19th and 20th. On these days, worshippers pray to Ebisu to establish a strong connection with this deity.
The term “hatsuka” refers to the 20th day of the month, hence the event’s name.
Other Useful Information
Opening Hours
- From 09:00 to 16:00
Contact
- TEL: 03-3844-1575
- Address: Asakusa 2-3-1, Taito-ku, Tokyo 111-0032
- Google Maps:
Public Transport Access
By Train
- 7-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Ginza Line.
- 7-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Asakusa Line.
- 7-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tobu Isesaki Line (Tobu Skytree Line).
- 10-minute walk from Asakusa Station on the Tsukuba Express Line.
By Megurin Bus
- 2-minute walk from Sensoji Kita Stop on the Megurin North Route (via Asakusa).
- 2-minute walk from Nitenmon Stop on the Megurin North Route (via Asakusa).
- 7-minute walk from Kaminarimon Dori Stop on the Megurin East-West Route (via Ueno Park).
- 7-minute walk from Kaminarimon Dori Stop on the Megurin East-West Route (via Uguisudani Station).
About Megurin Bus:
The Megurin Bus is a community bus operated by Taito Ward. It offers convenient access to many attractions within the ward at an affordable fare.
By Toei Bus
- 2-minute walk from Asakusa 2-Chome Stop on Route 上 26 (Ue 26).
- 2-minute walk from Asakusa 2-Chome Stop on Route 都 08 (To 08).
- 2-minute walk from Nitenmon Stop on Route 都 08 (To 08).
- 2-minute walk from Nitenmon Stop on Route 草 68 (Kusa 68).
Public Restroom Availability
Not available at Asakusa Shrine. However, public restrooms can be found nearby at Sensoji Temple.
