Hidden amongst the towering buildings of Tokyo lies a unique Shinto shrine. This is Shitamachi Shusse Inari Shrine. Its location is quite unusual. It sits atop a building in Ginza.
This isn’t your typical shrine tucked away in a quiet corner. Shitamachi Shusse Inari Shrine’s history is fascinating. It has stood in this area since ancient times. It was originally a guardian deity for the local community. The shrine faced hardship after the Ansei earthquake. It was damaged and scattered.
Then came the Great Kanto Earthquake. The shrine was forced to relocate. For a time it served the Ginza 3-chome town council. Locals deeply revered the shrine. They wished to keep it as their protector. However the land was incorporated into Tokyo-owned property. The town’s people persevered. They petitioned Tokyo City officials. After obtaining permission they erected the shrine. The first day of the rebuilt shrine was a grand celebration. Many attended. The shrine is known for protecting children and travelers.
During wartime the shrine hall was moved to a safer location. After the war it was rebuilt again. It was established as a religious corporation in 1952. The Ginza 3-chome Neighborhood Association helped restore it. The shrine’s influence continued to grow. It provided protection to its believers.
In 1983 a joint building project commenced. This involved the neighboring Ohiro Building. The shrine hall and main hall were cleverly integrated. The first and second floors housed the worship hall. The main hall was placed on the roof. Ingeniously pipes connected the worship hall to the main hall on the roof. This allowed worship to reach the main hall even from the lower floors. It’s a truly innovative shrine.
Every year a festival is held in February. It’s a major event. During the Great Ginza Festival the shrine acts as a landmark. It draws visitors from all over Ginza. Shitamachi Shusse Inari Shrine is a god of commerce. It’s associated with business success. It’s also known for marital harmony. Interestingly there have been no fires since it was enshrined. This is a testament to its protective power.
So next time you are in Ginza take some time to visit Shitamachi Shusse Inari Shrine. It’s a hidden gem in Tokyo. You’ll discover a piece of history and a unique testament to the enduring spirit of community faith.