浅間社

Sengen Shrine. This seemingly unassuming shrine nestled within Tokyo’s bustling Ota Ward holds a captivating story. The shrine’s origins trace back to the reign of Empress Suiko. Legend says she prayed for her husband, Prince Shotoku’s, long life and successful rule. In answer to her prayers, she was instructed to build a shrine. Centuries later, during renovations, evidence of a Kofun-era burial mound emerged. This 60-meter long keyhole-shaped mound, now called the “Sengen Shrine Kofun”, reveals layers of history predating the shrine itself. Sengen Shrine, formally known as Asakusa Sengen Shrine, also has ties to Mount Fuji. During the Edo period, when Mount Fuji worship flourished, Sengen Shrines were built across the country. People unable to make the pilgrimage to Mount Fuji would visit these local shrines instead. Sengen Shrine in Ota Ward became a focal point for such worship. It hosted the annual “Shokuboku-ichi” or plant market, adding a vibrant touch to the shrine’s atmosphere. The plant market, held for four days during the peak season for transplanting trees, continues to this day. It draws crowds of over 300,000 people, filling the air with the scent of fresh foliage. This lively market reminds us of the deep connection between Sengen Shrine and the community. And that connection continues to thrive. Sengen Shrine also played a role in the preservation of a unique tradition, the mugwort snake. These small snake figures, crafted from mugwort, were once placed in homes as protection against water-related calamities. Though the tradition faded after the war, Sengen Shrine revived it. Now, mugwort snakes are displayed during the plant market. They stand as a testament to the shrine’s commitment to preserving local customs and beliefs.