Glimpse the past at Hikawacho Hikawa Shrine. This historic site stands as a testament to Tokyo’s enduring spirit. Established in 951, Renrin, a priest, received an oracle here. He built a shrine to worship the deity. This act marked the humble beginnings of Hikawacho Hikawa Shrine.
Time marched on. In 1066, a severe drought gripped the Kanto area. Villagers turned to the shrine, praying for rain. Their prayers were answered. From that moment, the shrine earned deep respect from the Edo shogunate.
Fast forward to 1868. Emperor Meiji designated the shrine as an “associate imperial shrine”. Its purpose was to safeguard the new capital, Tokyo. Also, it should ensure peace for all.
Remarkably, Hikawacho Hikawa Shrine has withstood the test of time. It survived the Great Ansei Earthquake. It endured the Great Kanto Earthquake. It even weathered the Tokyo Air Raid. The shrine remains largely as it was when first built.
Susanono-no-mikoto is one of the main deities. Kushinadahime-no-mikoto is another. Oonamujimikoto completes the trio. The name “Hyogawa” connects to the Hyogawa River. It is now the Hii River in Shimane Prefecture. Legend says that the upper reaches of this river were the stage for Susanowo-no-mikoto’s battle. He exterminated the eight-forked serpent there.
Step through the torii gate. Leave the city behind. A tranquil, green space unfolds. The grounds are more expansive than expected. There are many interesting spots for a leisurely exploration.
Hikawacho Hikawa Shrine is known for good marriages. Many women come to worship here. It is believed to aid in fulfilling difficult love.
Designated a Tangible Cultural Property in 1976, the shrine holds historical significance. It is a rare building intact from the Edo period. Reinforcements have ensured its survival. It wards off bad luck.
Each year, the Akasaka Hikawa Festival takes place around September 15th to 18th. Floats and portable shrines parade during the festival. This spectacle is a must-see.
A natural monument of Minato City stands here. It is a large tree. This tree predates the shrine’s relocation. It has symbolized Hikawacho Hikawa Shrine since the early Edo period.
From Hikawa-zaka, approach the shrine. This path is believed to be the oldest. You can sense history all around you. The Taiko Bridge enhances the shrine’s charm. I recommend starting your visit from this side.
Though in the heart of Akasaka, the shrine is green and quiet. A drum bridge sits near the Hikawa-zaka entrance. A pond once graced the area. It no longer exists. The scenery still harmonizes with the bridge.
Shiawase Inari lies across the Taiko Bridge. Katsunobu Katsu coined the name “Shiawase Inari”. He enshrined four nearby Inari shrines together. The name combines “four shrines enshrined together” with “happiness.” It also means “joining of aspirations”.
Imagine sunlight filtering through the leaves. The quiet atmosphere embraces you. Time seems to slow down. Hikawacho Hikawa Shrine offers a peaceful escape. It stands as an important cultural asset and natural monument.