Glimmering in the heart of Shinjuku stands Ana Hachiman Shrine a beacon of history and hope. Founded in 1062 by Minamoto no Yoshiie, Ana Hachiman Shrine initially honored Hachiman the god of war. Minamoto celebrated his victorious return from the Ōshū War here. He dedicated his armor and sword to the shrine.
But how did Ana Hachiman Shrine get its unique name? In 1641 workers leveled part of the foothills. They were building a retreat for the shrine guard. A cavity was discovered. Inside it was a gilt bronze carving of a kami. Ana means cavity in Japanese. Thus the shrine became Ana Hachiman Shrine.
Let’s talk about luck specifically financial luck. Ana Hachiman Shrine is renowned for bestowing good fortune in business and money matters. People from across Tokyo visit seeking prosperity. Many believe a special amulet holds the key.
The Ichiyo Raifuku Omamori is available only during the winter solstice. This charm is said to bring good luck and business prosperity. It is distributed from 5 a.m. on the morning of the winter solstice until Setsubun. To maximize its power place the charm high on a wall. Face it towards the ehou the lucky direction of the year.
Did you know that Ana Hachiman Shrine once hosted Takadanobaba Yabusame? This traditional horseback archery demonstration now takes place at Toyama Park every October. It’s a Shinjuku Intangible Folk Cultural Property. Once upon a time Matsudaira Naotsugu practiced archery here. He was head of the Shogunate’s go-mochi archery team.
Emperor Jinmu the first emperor of Japan is worshipped from afar here. A special site points southwest to Kashihara Shrine in Nara. Legend says Emperor Jinmu ascended to the throne there in 660 BC.
Take a moment to appreciate the komainu guardian dogs. They date back to 1755. They have stood guard here for centuries.
Ana Hachiman Shrine faced destruction during the 1945 Tokyo Air Raid. But it was rebuilt. Reconstruction began in 1961. This marked the 900th anniversary of the shrine’s establishment.
Before you leave consider the journey of Ana Hachiman Shrine. From a warrior’s shrine to a beacon of financial hope its story is etched in every corner. May your visit bring you good fortune and lasting memories.