Myogi Shrine(Komagome Myogi Shrine) [Tokyo]

【This Stroll Map】

This time, I took a stroll along the route from JR Kamichūō Station to Hiratsuka Shrine → Former Koga Garden → Myōgi Shrine → JR Komagome Station.

【Myogi Shrine summary】

Myogi Shrine in Komagome, Tokyo, was founded in 651 (the second year of the Hakuchi era).

Considered one of the oldest shrines in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, legend holds that Yamato Takeru no Mikoto established his camp here during his eastern campaign in 651 and built a shrine, marking its origins. Originally named Shirotori Shrine, it appears that Shigeyoshi, a descendant of Nitta Yoshisada, later constructed it after inviting the deity from his ancestral home shrine, Shinmei Shrine in Gunma Prefecture. The Nitta clan had ties to Myōgi Shrine in Gunma, which also enshrines Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. It is possible the name was changed during this reconstruction. Later, Ōta Dōkan prayed for victory at this shrine before every battle, and his prayers were answered. Consequently, it gained fame as the “God of Victory” and the “Shrine of Battle Triumphs,” attracting widespread devotion.

The head shrine of Myogi Shrine is located in Myogi-cho, Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture.

Myogi Shrine [Gunma]

The enshrined deities are Prince Yamato Takeru, Takamimusubi no Kami, Empress Jingu, and Emperor Ojin.

【Ota Dokan？】

Ota Dokan was a military commander active in the Kantō region during the late Muromachi period. He built Edo Castle and was widely regarded as a first-rate figure both as a military commander and as a scholar. ※The site of Edo Castle is now the Imperial Palace.

The Imperial Palace (Outer Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Ruins of Edo Castle, East Gardens) [Tokyo]

【Myogi Shrine Torii gate】

In 2020, the main shrine hall was reconstructed and the shrine grounds were renovated, resulting in a beautiful new appearance, including the torii gate.

【Myogi Shrine temizuya / purification fountain】

The dragon was wearing a helmet. It seems to be based on a battle motif. That’s unusual.

【Myogi Shrine building】

The main hall is built in the Shinto-style architecture and is truly magnificent. The front features dragon carvings, making it a sight to behold.

【Myogi Shrine Ota Dokan Shrine】

There is a legend that after a battle, when Ota Dokan lost his way, a black cat came to his aid. Within the temple grounds, instead of guardian lion-dogs, “guardian cats” are displayed. This is quite rare, isn’t it?

The enshrined deity is Ota Dokan.

【Myogi Shrine Zeniarai Benzaiten】

Within the temple grounds stands Zeniarai Benzaiten, said to bestow blessings for improved financial fortune.

【Myogi Shrine GOSHUIN】

Standard Edition: 500 yen

Clear Edition Goshuin : ¥1,000

【Myogi Shrine Nearby attractions】

Hiratsuka Shrine, Kyu Furukawa Gardens, Rikugien Garden

Hiratsuka Shrine [Tokyo]

Kyu Furukawa Gardens [Tokyo]

【Myogi Shrine Access】

Manager’s Comments

Established in 651, this shrine has quite a long history, but having been rebuilt, it was fresh and beautiful. The grounds aren’t particularly large, but I think there are many unusual features and points of interest. Visiting it together with the nearby Old Koga Garden makes for a satisfying experience. For some reason, the visitors were mostly Asian tourists. Perhaps they were after the cat charms?

Site/Facility Size

 (2.5)

Richness of Nature

 (0.5)

Ease of access

 (4.5)

Number of tourists

 (4)

Komagome Myogi Shrine Address

〒170-0003 3-16-16 Komagome, Toshima-ku, Tokyo

※No parking available.

Approximately a 5-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line Komagome Station (North Exit)

参考

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関連投稿(Related Posts):

Kyu Furukawa Gardens [Tokyo] Hiratsuka Shrine [Tokyo] Hamarikyu Gardens [Tokyo] Koishikawa Korakuen Garden [Tokyo]