“How did this end up here?” I wondered. Facing us now is the Hibiya Inari Shrine. This small shrine has a fascinating history. It is more interesting than you might think at first glance.
The Hibiya Inari Shrine is a branch shrine. It shares origins with the Hibiya Shrine. The Hibiya Shrine was once located in Hibiya Park.
Back then the area near Hibiya Park was a seashore. It was called Hibiya. People harvested seaweed there. This is how the area got its name. “Hibi” means collecting seaweed.
In 1606, Edo Castle expanded. The Hibiya area became the location for the Hibiya Gate of the castle. The shrine had to move. It relocated to Shiba.
However, some worshippers missed the seaside location. They felt they needed to pray by the sea. These worshippers took a portion of the Hibiya Inari spirit. They enshrined it in this very location. This is the Hibiya Inari Shrine we see today.
So, this Hibiya Inari Shrine became the guardian of those working near the sea. It also protected those involved in marine transport. People came here to pray for safety and prosperity.
Today, the Hibiya Inari Shrine stands quietly. It is tucked away in a corner of a parking lot. You might easily miss it if you are not paying attention.
The closest station is Hatchobori Station. It is served by the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and the JR Keiyo Line. Look for the small shrine. It is near the Tamizuya.
Take a closer look at the Hibiya Inari Shrine. You will see an interesting detail. There is a description placed on the chozuya. The chozuya is the water basin.
Interestingly, the Hibiya Inari Shrine is associated with the Tosa Inari. Like the Hibiya Inari Shrine, the Tosa Inari enshrines a divided spirit.
The Hibiya Inari Shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami. Inari Okami is the god of rice. This is a vital deity for agriculture and prosperity.
Also note the small island once here. This area was once surrounded by rivers. To the north was the Nihonbashi River. To the east was the Sumida River. The Iroha River flowed to the south. This area was called Rogan Island.
People sentenced to exile were sent to Rogan Island. Their property was confiscated. Despite its small size, five shrines were concentrated in this area.
The Hibiya Inari Shrine offers several blessings. These include success in business. It also protects against disasters.
Also like the Hibiya Shrine, the Hibiya Inari Shrine was called “Saba Inari”. People would abstain from eating sea bream. They prayed to the shrine for good fortune. Sea bream images were often displayed at the shrine.
Though small the Hibiya Inari Shrine is rich in history. It represents the enduring faith of the local community. It serves as a reminder of Tokyo’s past. It embodies the spirit of those who sought blessings from the sea and land. Please pay your respects at this quiet but important shrine.