Question: What if I told you that this shrine moved to protect an imperial princess? That is a little-known fact about Chiyoda Inari Jinja. This shrine stands here with a rich history. It began in 1457.
Chiyoda Inari Jinja was erected by Ota Dokan. He wanted to protect his new Edo castle. The deity here is said to prevent fire. Many people come to pray for this very reason.
Later, Tokugawa Ieyasu expanded Edo Castle. In 1602, the shrine was moved. It went from inside the castle to Shibuya Miyamasuzaka. At this time, it became known as Chiyoda Inari.
Local residents deeply revered Chiyoda Inari Jinja. It is said that the shrine showed its divine power. It protected Princess Kazunomiya. She was the sister of Emperor Komei. She was traveling to Edo for her wedding. After she safely arrived, many people donated to the shrine.
In 1923, the Great Kanto Earthquake struck. Chiyoda Inari Jinja moved to Shibuya Hyakkendana. After World War II, it moved again to its current location.
Chiyoda Inari Jinja has a close connection to food. The enshrined deity ensures plentiful harvests. The deity blesses the food and plant industry. This is why it was moved to Hyakkendana.
The shrine also has a sub-shrine. It is called Nakakawa Inari Jinja. This enshrines Nakakawa Inari Daimyojin. This local guardian deity has been here for a long time.
Today, Chiyoda Inari Jinja continues to be a spiritual anchor. It offers blessings to those who seek them. Remember the story of Princess Kazunomiya. This shrine is not just a place of worship. It is a protector of people. It is a guardian of the city.