豊栄稲荷大明神

Tucked away in the heart of Tokyo, the unassuming Hōei Inari Daimyōjin Shrine whispers tales of resilience and change. This shrine, nestled within the Chiyoda ward, might seem small, but its story stretches back centuries. Originally established sometime between 1736 and 1741 by the feudal lord Todo Sanzaemon, Hōei Inari Daimyōjin has seen Tokyo transform around it. It was first known as either “Todo Inari” or “Awaji Inari,” reflecting the families who served as its caretakers. Later, when the Kojimachi Bank, which eventually became the Mitsubishi Bank, was founded in this area, the Awaji family offered land, including the shrine, to the bank. From then on, Kojimachi Bank, and later Mitsubishi Bank, became the shrine’s patrons. After the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923, the shrine was rebuilt. It was renamed Hōei Inari Daimyōjin to reflect hopes for town safety and prosperity. Sadly, disaster struck again during World War II, when the shrine was burned down. Yet, like a phoenix from the ashes, it was rebuilt once more, thanks to contributions from the community. Even with the construction of new bank buildings and the shrine’s temporary relocation, it found its way back to its original neighborhood. Today, Hōei Inari Daimyōjin rests on land owned by the Mitsubishi UFJ Bank, a testament to this enduring partnership. The bank continues to participate in the annual festivals held here. The shrine’s story, much like Tokyo itself, is one of constant evolution. It’s a story of survival, adaptation, and the enduring power of community.