Centuries whisper from the weathered wood. This is Toshima-dori Hachiman-gu. This shrine stands proudly in Tokyo’s Nerima ward. Its history stretches back to the late Kamakura period. Tradition suggests its founding in 1192.
The land was once divided into upper and lower districts. The lower district was known as Tawaraku-ho. Later records mention Hachiman Shrine. This was alongside other local shrines. They were the Tenjin-sha and the Inari-sha shrines. In 1874 these shrines merged. They became the Kita-no-miya Jinja.
The main deity is Honjo Wakemi-no-mikoto. Associated deities include Amaterasu Omikami and Sugawara Michizane. Before 1947 the main deity was Sugawara Michizane. After the war the shrine was renamed Toshima-dori Hachiman-gu.
Within the shrine grounds lie several smaller shrines. These are the Ina-ri-sha. The Yakumo-sha and the Mi-take-sha. Each shrine has a unique guardian deity. The grounds boast stone lanterns. These date back to 1816 and 1882. The main hall is a classic wood structure. The other buildings are also wood framed. The shrine office was newly constructed in 1982. There are many other significant stone structures.
A notable feature is the Nanban-style stone torii gate. This was built in 1878. This gate stands as one of Nerima’s many unique monuments. The main hall itself is constructed in a flowing wooden style. The inner sanctum is made of wood.
The shrine grounds are remarkable. They are densely wooded. The shrine has a large number of trees. These include tall old trees. It is one of the greenest locations in Nerima. Many ancient trees create a tranquil atmosphere. You feel surrounded by peaceful nature. The shrine grounds are a place of serenity. It is a welcome escape from the urban bustle. The shrine remains a spiritual centre for the community. It is a treasure of Tokyo’s history.