Beneath this unassuming facade lies a story tied to local faith. We are standing before the Tenso Jinja Shrine in Tokyo.
Tenso Jinja Shrine may appear modest. Yet its history is deeply rooted in the surrounding community.
Originally named Shinmei-sha. Tenso Jinja Shrine served as the village shrine for Kamiisshiki Village. The shrine’s exact founding date remains unknown.
Let’s delve into a unique aspect of Tenso Jinja Shrine. It involves a past practice known as the “Naked Festival.” This festival was linked to a period of widespread disease.
During the Tenpo era around 1830 to 1843, a devastating epidemic struck the region. The Naked Festival began as a way to pray for disease relief. People hoped to ward off illness through ritual purification.
A painted signboard depicts this festival. It hangs within the shrine. This artwork is designated as a cultural asset of Edogawa Ward. Unfortunately the shrine is usually closed to the public except on its festival days.
The main deities enshrined here are Amaterasu Omikami. Also enshrined are Takamimusubi and Musubi.
To reach Tenso Jinja Shrine, a ten-minute walk from Koiwa Station will get you here. Take a moment to appreciate this local treasure. It reflects the enduring spirit of the community. Tenso Jinja Shrine stands as a testament to faith. It also represents resilience in the face of adversity.