About Hakusan Shrine
Hakusan Shrine is a historical shrine founded in 948 (Tenryaku 2) when it was established by inviting deities from Hakusan Hime Shrine in Kaga Province. Located in Hakusan, Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, it has long been revered as the local guardian deity.
Deities and History
The main deities enshrined are Kukurihime-no-Mikoto, Izanagi-no-Mikoto, and Izanami-no-Mikoto. Kukurihime-no-Mikoto is worshipped as a goddess of matchmaking because her name “Kukuri” sounds similar to “Katsuri” (binding/binding).
Originally located in Hongo Motomachi (present-day Hongo 1-chome), it was moved to its current location in 1655 (Meireki 1) due to the construction of the residence of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the lord of Tatebayashi Domain.
Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival
Dates and Highlights
The Bunkyo Hydrangea Festival is held every year in mid-June. Approximately 3,000 hydrangea plants of about 20 varieties are planted from the temple grounds to Hakusan Park, adorning the approach with vibrant white, blue, purple, and pink blossoms.
On weekends during the festival, there are events such as the opening of the Fujizuka (miniature Mount Fuji), a toothbrush memorial service, sales of potted hydrangeas, and food stalls, attracting many visitors.
Types of Hydrangeas
Within the temple grounds, you can enjoy a variety of hydrangeas, including Western hydrangeas, lacecap hydrangeas, and oakleaf hydrangeas. The hydrangeas around the Fujizuka are particularly popular as a photo spot.
Points to Note When Visiting
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from approximately 9:00 to 17:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Goshuin (Shrine Stamp): Available at the shrine office (Donation: 300 yen)
Highlights of the Grounds
Fujizuka (Hakusan Sengen Shrine)
The Fujizuka (miniature Mt. Fuji) on the grounds is a valuable relic of Fuji worship still existing in Bunkyo Ward. Climbing is only possible during the Hydrangea Festival.
Sun Yat-sen’s Monument
A monument commemorating the speech given by Sun Yat-sen, the father of the Chinese revolution, at this location during his visit to Japan in 1913, stands on the grounds.
Benefits
Main Benefits
- Matchmaking: The power of Kukurihime-no-Mikoto’s “binding” ability brings about successful relationships.
- Marital Harmony: Family harmony is ensured by Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto.
- Healing from Toothaches: Known as the “God of Teeth” within the shrine grounds.
- Business Prosperity: Divine blessings as the local guardian deity.
As the God of Teeth
Hakusan Shrine is also known as the “God of Teeth” and has attracted the faith of people suffering from toothaches. During the Hydrangea Festival, a “Toothbrush Memorial Service” is held, where you can offer your used toothbrushes.
Access
Access by Train
- Hakusan Station (Toei Mita Line): 3-minute walk from Exit A3 (nearest station)
- Hon-Komagome Station (Tokyo Metro Namboku Line): 5-minute walk from Exit 1
- Sengoku Station (Toei Mita Line): 10-minute walk from Exit A1
Access by Bus
Get off at the “Hakusan-kami” bus stop (Toei Bus), 3-minute walk
Parking
There is no dedicated parking lot. Please use nearby coin-operated parking lots. It gets especially crowded during the hydrangea festival, so we recommend using public transportation.
Basic Information
- Address: 5-31-26 Hakusan, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
- Phone: 03-3811-6568
- Nearest Station: 3-minute walk from Hakusan Station (Toei Mita Line)
- Official Website: See Bunkyo City Tourism Association page
