Oji Shrine and Otonashi Shinsui Park [Tokyo]

【Oji Shrine summary】

Oji Shrine has a long history, dating back to the Genkou era (1321-24). In the Edo period (1603-1867), the shrine was called Oji-gongen, and was one of the most famous places in Edo along with Asukayama, which was famous for cherry blossom viewing. The shrine is of extremely high rank, and in its heyday, Asukayama was also its dominion, which is the origin of the name of the area known as “Oji” in this region. It is also the northernmost of the 10 shrines of Tokyo designated by Emperor Meiji.

The five deities are Izanagi no Mikoto, Izanami no Mikoto, Amaterasu no Mikami, Hayatama no Mikoto, and Kotosaka no Mikoto, collectively called “Ojigami. It is said that many Oji deities were enshrined along Kumano Kodo in Wakayama Prefecture, which is also registered as a World Heritage site.

Kumano Nachi Taisya [Wakayama] Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine [Wakayama] Large Torii of Oosaihara, Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine [Wakayama]

【Oji Shrine Precincts 】

A stone torii gate has been reconstructed on the site of the Shinto gate that was destroyed by fire during the war. It is one of the largest stone torii gates in Tokyo. There are few steps, including the approach to the shrine, making it easy for those with weak legs and backs to visit the shrine.

Although the grounds from the torii gate to the hall of worship are not that large, the temple grounds are a relaxing place with lush greenery and trees lining the grounds. The worship hall was almost completely lost in the war in 1945, but was reconstructed after the war and has regained its dignified appearance with white pillars and curtains, gold ornamental metal fittings, and austere color tones. It is recommended to visit not only the shrine but also the Otonashi Shinsui Park.

After passing through the torii gate, a magnificent mikoshi (portable shrine) is displayed on the left.

【Oji Shrine Precincts Seki Shrine】

Within the precincts of the shrine is Seki-jinja Shrine, the god of the hairdressing industry and the ancestral god of hair. The shrine was destroyed by fire in the war, but was rebuilt in 1961 by barbers, hairdressers, wig shops, and others as a memorial service for hair and as a way of returning the favor. The names of people and wig stores that contributed to the reconstruction were engraved. Please visit the shrine if you are anxious about your hair, as it may bring you good luck. The deity of the shrine is Lord Semimaru, who is also famous for the Hyakunin Isshu (100 poems).

【Otonashi Shinsui Park】

Otonashi Shinsui Park is one of the 100 best urban parks in Japan. The promenade offers seasonal views of cherry blossoms in spring, shades of green in summer, and autumn leaves in fall. The river, with its low water level, is a water playground for children, and the old-fashioned wooden bridge (Funakushi Bridge) is also a beautiful park blessed with nature.

There are stairs going up to Oji Shrine from Otonashi Water Park. It would be pleasant to stroll there together with Oji Shrine.

【Oji Shrine GOSHUIN】

There is no set fee, so it is up to the mind of the worshipper. I paid 500 yen.

【Oji Shrine Nearby attractions】

Asukayama Park, Paper Museum, Asukayama Museum, Shibusawa Museum, Old Shibusawa Garden, Asukaya-no Koji, Oji Inari Shrine, Nanasha-jinja Shrine

Oji Inari Shrine and Meishu no Taki Park [Tokyo]

Asuka-no Shokei (hydrangea season) [Tokyo] Nanasha-jinja Shrine [Tokyo]

【Oji Shrine Access】