Get the Good Fortune by Visiting Shrines in Tokyo
Japan is a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition. It's famous for its advanced technology, busy cities like Tokyo, and impressive infrastructure. At the same time, Japan holds on to its rich cultural and religious traditions. Shintoism and Buddhism are the main religions, seen in the many old shrines and temples across the country. The difference between Shrines and Temples is Shrines are built to serve the Shinto religious tradition and are characterized by a Torii gate at the entrance. At the same time, temples are built to serve the Buddhist religious tradition and are characterized by a sanmon gate at the entrance. Japanese believe in both beliefs to get good fortune, and it’s not restricted to foreigners if they want to join to pray at a shrine or temple. Let’s get good fortune by visiting the famous shrines and temples I’ll show in this article!
1. Senso-ji Temple
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Sensōji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple is a one of Tokyo's most popular Buddhist temple, located in Asakusa. According to the legend, in the year 628, two brothers pulled a statue of Kannon, the goddes merciful nirvana achiever, from the Sumida River. Despite their attempts to return the statue to the river, it repeatedly came back to them. As a result, Sensoji Temple was constructed nearby in honor of Kannon. Sensoji Temple was founded in 628, but the current red building is newer because it was rebuilt after being destroyed in World War II.
2. Hie Shrine
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Hie Shrine has a history of about 800 years, and is located on a small mountain close to the Akasaka area, Chiyoda. Hie Shrine is considered a "power spot" that brings good fortune to those looking for a partner, those who are married or about to be married, and those raising children. Many Japanese people choose to have their wedding ceremony at this shrine. If you visit Hie-jinja Shrine on the weekend, you might see a bride in a beautiful kimono during a traditional wedding.
3. Meiji-Jingu Shrine
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Meiji Shrine (明治神宫, Meiji Jingū) is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his consort Empress Shoken. It was built eight years after the passing of the emperor and six years after the passing of the empress. Though it was destroyed in the war, the shrine was quickly rebuilt. Besides its history, Meiji-Jingu Shrine has a sanctuary, forest, garden, and museum, and holds ceremonies and events for visitors to enjoy. You can see more details on its website
4. Kanda Shrine
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The Kanda Shrine, also called "Kanda Myoujin," was originally constructed around 1,300 years ago in Otemachi, Chiyoda-ward, Tokyo. During the early Edo period in 1603, it was relocated to Kanda-dai because of the expansion of Edo Castle. Later, in 1616, it moved to its present location. At Kanda Myojin Shrine, you can pray for prosperity, good luck, and marriage. The shrine is home to three main gods, known as kami, including Daikokuten and Ebisu, who are part of the seven Gods of Fortune. Daikokuten oversees abundant harvests and marriages, while Ebisu is the god of fisheries and business.
5. Zojoji Temple
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Zōjōji Temple (増上寺) is the main temple of the Jodo sect of Japanese Buddhism in the Kanto Region. Located next to Tokyo Tower, the temple grounds feature impressive buildings, including a mausoleum for the Tokugawa family and a small museum. Many of Zojoji's buildings today are modern reconstructions, except for the main gate, the Sangedatsumon, which has survived numerous fires, earthquakes, and wars since it was built in 1622. The temple was first constructed in 1393 and later relocated to its current site in 1598 by Tokugawa Ieyasu, who chose it as his family's temple. At the rear of the complex, there is a mausoleum where the tombs of six Tokugawa shoguns are housed.
