Strange to see a temple above a shop, isn’t it? Right here in Ueno’s bustling Ameyoko shopping street sits Marishiten Tokudaiji. It is a unique temple. Imagine a peaceful sanctuary perched atop a bean shop. This is no mirage. It’s Marishiten Tokudaiji.
Marishiten Tokudaiji offers a surprising contrast to its surroundings. This temple is dedicated to Marishiten. Marishiten is a Buddhist guardian goddess. She bestows vitality, strength, and wealth. She wards off evil and welcomes good fortune.
Originally, Marishiten stems from the Hindu god Marici. Marici appears in the Bhagavad Gita. Marishiten is often depicted riding a wild boar. She holds a sword. She is revered as a deity of luck and victory. This made her popular among military commanders and entertainers.
Tokudaiji Temple’s history is also intriguing. Its origins trace back to the early Edo period. Uenohirokoji was once filled with temples and shrines. After the Great Kanto Earthquake and World War II, only Tokudaiji remained. This makes it Ueno’s last temple of its kind.
Marishiten Tokudaiji is one of Japan’s three most important Marishiten temples. The others are in Kyoto and Ishikawa Prefecture. Ashikaga Takauji and Tokugawa Ieyasu were among her worshippers. They carried flags and statues of Marishiten into battle.
Interestingly, Marishiten Tokudaiji miraculously survived both the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and the bombings of World War II. This adds to its reputation as a temple blessed with good fortune.
When you visit Marishiten Tokudaiji, you may notice something else unique. The JR Yamanote Line runs right behind the statues of Saint Nichiren. You will also see Shichimen-sama and the Tsumagoi-Jizou. It’s a blend of historical and modern Tokyo.
Many believe visiting Marishiten Tokudaiji brings good luck and removes misfortune. It’s a place to invite good fortune. Locals affectionately call it “Ueno Hirokoji’s Marishiten-sama.”
Marishiten Tokudaiji designates special festival days. These are called Ennichi. They connect you with gods and Buddhas. Ennichi falls on boar days of the Chinese zodiac. Visiting the temple on these days is said to bring special blessings.
So, take a moment to escape the busy market. Ascend to Marishiten Tokudaiji. Experience its calming presence. Receive the blessings of this resilient goddess. Feel the unique blend of peace and urban energy.