Imagine a warrior defeated. It is not a glorious image but it is the start of the story of Koroku Inari Shrine. This Tokyo shrine has a surprising origin story linked to a fallen samurai.
The Koroku Inari Shrine stands here today. It has deep roots in the history of Minamisenju.
In 1561, Takada Karo Saemon a retainer of Uesugi Kenshin was defeated. The battle was at Kawanakajima. He fled to this area with twelve comrades. They settled here and named it Shioiri. They established the Koroku Inari Shrine. It was a place to pray for peace and stability.
Originally the shrine was called Dairokuten. This name honored the Buddhist deity Dairokuten Maou. During the Meiji Restoration, Japan separated Shinto and Buddhism. The shrine was renamed Koroku Inari Shrine. The name came from two sources. First, the “roku” from Dairokuten. Second, the “koroku” from “koroku fun”. This was a type of facial powder produced in the area.
The enshrined deities were also changed. They became Omodaru no Mikoto and Kashikone no Mikoto. These gods appear in Japanese mythology.
Local industry shaped the shrine’s history. Until the mid-Meiji era, the area thrived on koroku fun production. A nishiki-e print dedicated to the shrine depicts mountains of oyster shells. These shells were used to make the powder. This artwork offers a glimpse into the past.
The main shrine building dates back to 1852. It was rebuilt then. It has survived earthquakes and wars. This makes it precious.
In 2003, the shrine was relocated slightly to the south. This was because of local redevelopment.
Today, Koroku Inari Shrine is a peaceful place. It stands amidst modern buildings. The shrine also has smaller shrines. The Dousojin protects travelers. The Katana塚 honors the swords of the past. Stone mortars used for making koroku fun are on display.
The shrine offers various Goshuin stamps. These include monthly and seasonal designs.
Koroku Inari Shrine links to local history. It shows both samurai defeat and industrial success. This shrine is a place of calm in Tokyo’s bustling streets. It continues to be a place of worship. It offers insights into the area’s unique past.