Ōji

Tucked away in Kita Ward, Tokyo, lies the charming district of Ōji. Ōji’s history stretches back to the Edo period, when people from the capital sought its tranquil countryside along the Shakujii River. The artist Utagawa Hiroshige, captivated by Ōji’s pastoral beauty, immortalized its landscapes in his ukiyo-e prints. Ōji’s charm lies not just in its natural beauty but also in its rich cultural heritage. Ōji is known as the “Town of Foxes,” a nod to the sacred messengers of Inari, the god of good crops. Ōji Shrine, one of Tokyo’s ten most important shrines, stands proudly near the station. Founded near 1321, it houses the deities Izanami no Mikoto and Amaterasu Omikami. A magnificent, 600-year-old ginkgo tree graces the shrine grounds. Not far from Ōji Shrine is the Oji Inari Shrine, a popular spot for locals. The shrine is dedicated to Inari, and fox statues adorn its entrance. A unique feature of Oji Inari Shrine is the “Oishi-sama,” a wish-granting rock. Legend has it that if you can lift this rock, your wish will come true. Every New Year’s Eve, Ōji Inari Shrine hosts the enchanting Oji Kitsune no Gyoretsu, a parade celebrating the fox god. Ōji offers a variety of dining options, from traditional izakaya bars to ramen shops. For a panoramic view of Ōji and its railway tracks, visit the Hokutopia Tower observatory. Ōji’s unique blend of nature, history, and folklore makes it a hidden gem in Tokyo, waiting to be explored.