御霊神社

Goryo Shrine. A place where ancient traditions meet modern-day Tokyo. This unassuming shrine, nestled in the heart of Shinjuku, holds a history more intriguing than its quiet exterior suggests. Goryo Shrine’s origins are shrouded in mystery. Some say it was established in 110 AD. Supposedly, part of the entourage of the legendary Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, during his eastern expedition, settled here and enshrined the deities. Another tradition links the shrine to the powerful Fujiwara clan. They established the shrine during the Heian period. Regardless of the precise origin, Goryo Shrine has long been a place of worship for those seeking protection in childbirth and the safe upbringing of children. The deities enshrined here, including Emperor Chuai, Empress Jingu, and Prince Otomo, are revered for their protective powers. On January 13th, the shrine comes alive with the O-Bishai Festival. Archers shoot arrows at targets. This ritual symbolizes warding off evil spirits and ensuring good fortune for the coming year. This tradition dates back centuries. It offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Shinto practices. The shrine’s Goshuincho, a red seal book, contains a stamp with the name “Goryo Shrine” prominently displayed. This serves as a tangible reminder of your visit to this sacred space. Look for the two Bunki, or divided sacred trees, within the shrine grounds. One of these trees bears the inscription “Eikyuroku Bingou”, indicating that this ritual has been performed here since at least 1563. Goryo Shrine may be small. It may not boast the grandeur of some of Tokyo’s more famous temples. But it offers a unique connection to the spiritual heart of Japan. It’s a place where whispers of ancient legends linger in the air, a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition in the bustling metropolis of Tokyo.