“A flower garden.” That’s what Hanazono means. Hanazono Shrine stands as a testament to Shinjuku’s dynamic past. This Shinto shrine has guarded the area and its inhabitants for centuries. We find ourselves a few steps from Shinjuku Station. The Kabukicho entertainment district is close by.
Hanazono Shrine’s origins remain unknown. We do know it existed in 1590. This was when Ieyasu Tokugawa took over Edo. Edo is today’s Tokyo. In 1603 Ieyasu made Edo the capital.
Originally, the shrine stood on the grounds of the Isetan Department Store. Later, Lord Asakura received the land. The shrine petitioned and got its current location. This new land once had colorful flowers. That’s where the name Hanazono comes from.
Shinjuku was outside Edo then. A new way station opened. This boosted the area’s development. “Shinjuku” means “New Way Station.” Eateries and entertainment followed. Hanazono Shrine became central to this growing community.
The shrine is dedicated to Inari Okami. Inari Okami is the god of trade and worldly success. The main hall dates back to 1965. It is made of reinforced concrete.
Itoku Inari Shrine is a sub-shrine. It is a typical Inari fox shrine. Small torii gates stand in front of it. The Geino Asama Shrine is for performers. Actors and singers pray here. They seek good fortune. Some donate money. Their names are on display.
Hanazono Shrine became a hub for counter culture. In the 1960s, Shinjuku saw student demonstrations. Avant-garde artists gathered here. Juro Kara, a visionary director, set up his red tent theater on the grounds. He staged thought-provoking plays.
Hanazono Shrine hosts several festivals. New Year’s Prayer happens on New Year’s Night. The Reitaisai Festival occurs in late May. Tori-no-Ichi Festival takes place in November. The Reitaisai Festival is the most important. Booths sell sweets and festival food. Mikoshi parades circle the neighborhood. The Tori-no-Ichi Festival is like a Japanese Thanksgiving. Paper lanterns decorate the shrine.
Hanazono Shrine blends history and culture. It offers a serene escape in bustling Tokyo. The shrine’s grounds offer a unique experience. It links past and present in Shinjuku’s heart.