須賀神社

Tucked away in the bustling heart of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, Suga Shrine whispers tales of ancient myths and modern-day magic. Have you ever felt a tug, a pull towards a place you’ve never been? That’s the allure of Suga Shrine. This sacred space, known locally as Suga Jinja, has been a guardian of the Yotsuya area since the Edo period, a silent witness to the ebb and flow of Tokyo’s history. Suga Shrine wasn’t always one entity. It was once two separate shrines: the Gozutennou Shrine and the Inari Shrine. Only after the Meiji Restoration did these two spiritual forces merge, creating the Suga Shrine we know today. The name “Suga” itself echoes an ancient legend, a tale of purification. According to Japanese mythology, the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, after defeating the eight-headed serpent, proclaimed “Here I come, and I feel suga suga shi (purified).” This sense of cleansing, of spiritual renewal, permeates the air at Suga Shrine. While steeped in history, Suga Shrine has also found its way into contemporary culture. It’s the very spot depicted in the 2016 anime film “Your Name,” its narrow staircase forever immortalized in a key scene. Picture yourself standing at the bottom of those very stairs, known as the Otokozaka stairs. Imagine the countless fans who have traveled from all over the world, recreating that iconic moment. Beyond its cinematic fame, Suga Shrine offers a tranquil escape from the city’s clamor. The serene atmosphere invites contemplation. The vibrant red handrails of the Otokozaka stairs lead you upwards, guiding you towards the main shrine building, adorned with golden decorations that gleam in the sunlight. Here, two deities reside: Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the deity of good fortune and protection, and Ukanomitama-no-Mikoto, the deity of prosperity and abundant harvests. As you stand within the shrine’s embrace, remember the purification ritual of Susano no Mikoto. Breathe in the tranquility, and perhaps, you too will leave Suga Shrine feeling refreshed and renewed.