Picture this. You stand before the Sumida Inari Jinsha. This isn’t just any shrine. It’s a living testament to resilience and faith.
Sumida Inari Jinsha boasts a rich history. It was founded during the Tensho era between 1532 and 1555. A descendant of the powerful Edo period official Kawakami Sukezaemon founded it. He fled from Aizu after his master’s death. He sought divine protection from the deity Fushimi Inari. He established the shrine and served as its guardian. This small community was named Sukezaemon-cho.
For centuries Sumida Inari Jinsha stood as a guardian of the village. In 1830 a pivotal event occurred. The shrine priest sought divine assistance from the deity Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto. He was undertaking a pilgrimage. He encountered danger in a beautiful foreign land. Eight samurai bravely rescued him. This miraculous event solidified the shrine’s reputation for protection. This led to the shrine being called Hachinin Inari. It was a shrine that garnered faith in disaster relief.
The Meiji era brought significant change. In 1913 Sumida Inari Jinsha relocated due to Sumida River improvement works. The shrine was rebuilt in 1932. The current shrine structure dates back to 1943.
Today Sumida Inari Jinsha maintains its strong connection to its past. It is known for its annual New Year’s Day service. A unique tradition is the offering of Konnyaku. This is a plant-based jelly. An elderly woman once offered it for healing purposes. This became a tradition. People suffering from the same illness now receive it. It is a testament to the shrine’s enduring power of healing and faith.
The Mantoku-lantern also holds a special place. It depicts the history of Sukezaemon-cho’s founding. It first appeared in 1864. It was rediscovered and restored in 1975 after being discontinued for many years.
Sumida Inari Jinsha is more than just a place of worship. It’s a symbol of the enduring spirit of the Sumida ward. It’s a place where history faith and community converge. Take a moment to appreciate its quiet beauty. Reflect on the stories whispered among its ancient trees. Let the peace of Sumida Inari Jinsha linger in your heart long after you leave.