Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi (Izumo Taisha Tokyo Shrine) [Tokyo]

【Overview of Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi】

The history of Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi (commonly known as Izumo Taisha Tokyo Shrine) dates back to 1878 (Meiji 11). With the formal permission of the Meiji Emperor, it was initially established within Kanda Shrine, located in what is now Kojimachi, Chiyoda Ward. After subsequently moving to the former Date clan estate in Hibiya, it relocated to its current home in Azabu (Roppongi) in 1883 (Meiji 16), where it established its own independent shrine buildings as the Tokyo Bunshi.

The enshrined deity is Okuninushi-no-Okami, the exact same primary deity worshipped at the grand main sanctuary in Shimane Prefecture.

It is highly celebrated as a spiritual power spot granting blessings for Enmusubi (the forging of good matches and connections in love, marriage, work, and interpersonal relationships). In particular, its famous “Enmusubi-no-Ito” (Matching Threads), which are believed to reconcile past relationships and draw one’s destined partner closer, are exceptionally popular.

【The Temizuya (Purification Fountain)】

At first glance, it may seem as though the shrine lacks a Temizuya (water purification fountain). However, once you take the stairs up to the third floor, you will find both the Haraesha (purification auxiliary shrine) and the Temizuya located in an outdoor, terrace-like space along the path leading toward the Worship Hall.

Rather than heading straight into the Worship Hall immediately upon entering the building, make sure to stop by this outdoor terrace area first to purify yourself.

【The Haiden (Worship Hall)】

Since the Haiden (Worship Hall) itself is housed completely inside the modern building, visitors can take their time offering their prayers comfortably without getting wet, even on a rainy day.

In accordance with the official traditions maintained at the Izumo Taisha Grand Headquarters in Shimane, the formal etiquette here requires clapping your hands four times, rather than the standard two.

【Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi Goshuin】

【Nearby Tourist Spots (Within a 30-Minute Walk)】

Nezu Museum, The National Art Center, Tokyo, Chokoku-ji Temple, Mori Art Museum, Konno Hachimangu Shrine, Shibuya Hikawa Shrine, Nogi Shrine, Akasaka Hikawa Shrine.

The National Art Center Tokyo [Tokyo]

Hodasan Chokoku-ji Temple [Tokyo]

Nezu Museum [Tokyo]

Nogi Shrine [Tokyo]

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine [Tokyo]

Konno Hachimangu Shrine and Toyosaka Inari Shrine [Tokyo]

【Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi Access】

Admin’s Impressions

I was absolutely amazed to find a shrine seamlessly integrated with a modern commercial building right in the dead center of Roppongi! Climbing up the stairs, a profoundly quiet and serene space suddenly opened up before me, which felt completely surreal and magical. Perhaps because it is so famous for its matchmaking blessings, the grounds were filled with many female visitors, lending the space a very bright and lively atmosphere.

However, I made a devastating mistake… Out of sheer habit, I ended up offering my prayers using the standard ritual of “2 bows, 2 claps, 1 bow”… I will absolutely have to visit again to pay my respects properly with the 4 claps.

Scale

 (2)

Accessibility

 (5)

History / Origins

 (1.5)

Nature / Scenery

 (0.5)

Quietness

 (3)

Goshuin Variety

 (3)

Address of Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi

7-18-5 Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo 106-0032

*Free parking available on-site (limited to 2 spaces).

Approx. a 1-minute walk from Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line / Toei Oedo Line).

Official Website of Izumo Oyashiro Tokyo Bunshi

参考

出雲大社東京分祠 | 縁結びの神様

関連投稿(Related Posts):

Akasaka Hikawa Shrine [Tokyo] Nogi Shrine [Tokyo] Azabu Hikawa Shrine [Tokyo] Karasumori Shrine [Tokyo]