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Otori shrine

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Contemplate the rhythmic beat of taiko drums. It echoes the vibrant spirit of Otori Shrine.

Welcome to Otori Shrine. It is a Shinto shrine nestled in Taito-ku, Tokyo. Otori Shrine is more than just a beautiful landmark. It’s a place of deep-rooted traditions. These traditions have been celebrated for centuries.

Otori Shrine comes alive with the Tori-no-Ichi festivals each November. These festivals have been held since the Edo era. That’s around the 1750s. The air crackles with excitement during these festivals.

The festivals are named Ichinotori, Ninotori, and Sannotori. These names mark the first, second, and third festivals. They celebrate Ameno-Hiwashino-Mikoto and Yamato-Takeruno-Mikoto. People affectionately call Otori Shrine “Otori-Sama”. Worshippers throng the shrine throughout the festival days. They seek blessings for good fortune and protection.

The daily life of purity, righteousness, vigor, and harmony are brought about here. Imagine the shrine yard filled with stalls. Around 300 stalls sell lucky rakes. These rakes are decorated with colorful symbols of good fortune. People believe they bring wealth.

The Tori-no-Ichi festivals played a vital role in Edo society. The Yoshiwara Pleasure district opened its gates to the public during this time. Small merchants and farmers relied on this market to pay off their annual debts. People bought good luck charms and food for New Year celebrations. The market bridged the old and new years. It emphasized the continuum of time in society.

But there is also another Otori Shrine in Meguro Ward in Tokyo. It is the oldest shrine in that ward. This Otori Shrine also celebrates the Tori-no-Ichi festival in November. This has been a tradition since the Edo period. The main deity of this Otori Shrine is Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. This shrine is known for blessings in curing eye diseases.

Consider acquiring a kumade. A kumade is a rake that is believed to rake in good luck. This special rake will safeguard your home.

As we conclude our visit to Otori Shrine, take a moment. Reflect on the traditions. The festivals offer a bridge between the past and the future. They link us to the spirit of Tokyo.

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