Michioi Shrine (Chofu City, Tokyo) Complete Guide | Deities, History, Access, and Surrounding Area Information
Michioi Shrine, located in Tobitakyu, Chofu City, Tokyo, is a shrine nestled in a quiet residential area about a 5-minute walk from Tobitakyu Station. It has a history of two shrines being merged during the Meiji era, and was relocated to its current location during the Showa era due to the construction of Chofu Airfield during the war. It is an important guardian shrine that tells the story of the region’s history.
This article comprehensively introduces information useful for visiting Michioi Shrine, including its deities, history, highlights within the grounds, access methods, and information on nearby shrines and temples.
Basic Information about Michio Shrine
Location, Phone Number, and Email Address
- Location: 2-39-20 Tobitakyu, Chofu City, Tokyo 182-0036
- Phone Number: 042-489-0022 (Futa Tenjin Shrine)
- Former Shrine Rank: Village Shrine
- Annual Festival Day: Third Sunday of September
- Goshuin (Shrine Seal): None (Currently not issued)
Michio Shrine does not have its own independent shrine office and is managed by Futa Tenjin Shrine in Chofu City. Therefore, inquiries should be directed to Futa Tenjin Shrine.
Deity and Benefits
The deity enshrined at Michio Shrine is Ukemochi-no-Mikoto. Also known as Ukemochi-no-Kami, she is known in Japanese mythology as the goddess who presides over food.
Main Benefits:
- Abundant harvests
- Business prosperity
- Protection of food and agriculture
- Industrial development
Ukemochi-no-Mikoto appears in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and is a deity said to have produced various foods from his mouth. Therefore, he has been worshipped by people involved in agriculture and food since ancient times. As the guardian deity of Tobitakyu Village, he continues to watch over the region’s bountiful harvests and prosperity.
History of Michio Shrine
Merger in the Meiji Era
The current form of Michio Shrine was established in 1884 (Meiji 17). In that year, two shrines in Tobitakyu Village, Tobita Shrine and Michio Shrine, were merged, and the current name “Michio Shrine” was adopted.
During the Meiji era, the consolidation and abolition of shrines progressed nationwide, and there was a movement to reorganize small village shrines and unranked shrines. In Tobitakyu Village, following this trend, the two shrines merged into one, restarting as the village’s guardian deity. ### Relocation in the Showa Era and Chofu Airfield
The most significant turning point in the history of Michio Shrine was its relocation in 1943 (Showa 18).
During the Pacific War, expansion work was carried out at Chofu Airfield (the area around the current Chofu Airfield and Ajinomoto Stadium) to meet the needs of the military. Because the former shrine grounds were designated as part of this airfield, Michio Shrine was relocated to its current location at 2-39-20 Tobitakyu.
This relocation took place under the tense circumstances of wartime and was a major event for the local residents. The current shrine grounds are a place that has been preserved through this historical background.
From the Post-War to the Present
After the war, Chofu Airfield was requisitioned by the US military, then returned, and is now operated as an airfield exclusively for small aircraft. The area around the former shrine grounds has been completely transformed, with Ajinomoto Stadium and Musashino Forest Park being developed.
Meanwhile, the relocated Michio Shrine now stands quietly amidst the residential area of Tobitakyu, continuing to attract worshippers as a spiritual anchor for the local community to this day.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Building and Atmosphere
Despite being located in a residential area, the grounds of Michio Shrine maintain a tranquil atmosphere. Visitors find peace in the small yet meticulously maintained grounds.
The shrine building, constructed after the relocation in the Showa era, is simple yet dignified. Photography is permitted, but please observe proper etiquette and take pictures quietly.
Torii Gate and Approach
Passing through the torii gate along the road, a short approach leads to the shrine building. Like many urban shrines, the grounds are not large, but this makes them more approachable and gives the impression of a shrine deeply rooted in the community.
Subsidiary Shrines and Stone Monuments
Within the grounds, there are several small but related stone monuments and memorials, telling the history of the region. When visiting the shrine, paying attention to these stone monuments will allow you to feel the history of the shrine more deeply.
Access Information | 5-minute walk from Tobitakyu Station
Access by Train
The nearest station to Michio Shrine is Tobitakyu Station on the Keio Line.
From Keio Line Tobitakyu Station:
- Distance: Approximately 220m (straight line)
- Walking time: Approximately 3-5 minutes
- Exit: South Exit (elevator available)
Tobitakyu Station is a convenient station where express, local, and rapid trains stop, although express and semi-express trains do not. It is approximately 20 minutes from Shinjuku Station and one stop from Chofu Station.
Directions from Tobitakyu Station
- Exit the south exit of Tobitakyu Station.
- Proceed southeast along the road in front of the station.
- Continue straight through the residential area, and you will see the torii gate of Michio Shrine on your right.
- Arrive in approximately 3-5 minutes on foot.
It’s very close to the station, so even first-time visitors should be able to find it without getting lost. Searching for “Michio Shrine” on a map app will display the exact route.
Access by Car and Parking
Michio Shrine does not have its own parking lot. If you are visiting by car, we recommend using a nearby coin-operated parking lot or public transportation.
Since it is located in a residential area, street parking will inconvenience local residents, so please be sure to use the designated parking area.
Manners and Points for Visiting
Etiquette for Visiting
Here are the basic manners for visiting Michio Shrine.
- Bow before the torii gate: Bow slightly before passing through the torii gate.
- Walking along the approach: The center of the approach is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the sides.
- Procedure for purification: If there is a purification fountain, purify in the following order: left hand → right hand → mouth → handle.
- Worship at the main hall: The basic procedure is two bows, two claps, and one bow.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Michio Shrine currently does not issue Goshuin. Those collecting Goshuin are advised to visit Futa Tenjin Shrine, which manages the shrine, or other nearby shrines and temples.
Photography Etiquette
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please observe the following etiquette.
- Be considerate and avoid disturbing other worshippers.
- Refrain from taking photos inside the shrine.
- Avoid using flash photography.
- When posting on social media, be mindful of location information.
Nearby Shrines and Temples
Here are some nearby shrines and temples you might want to visit after visiting Michio Shrine.
Futa Tenjin Shrine
- Location: 1-8-1 Chofugaoka, Chofu City
- Distance: Approximately 2.5km from Michio Shrine
- Access: 5-minute walk from Chofu Station on the Keio Line
- Features: Known as the guardian shrine of Chofu, it manages Michio Shrine. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, and is bustling with worshippers during exam season.
Jindaiji Temple
- Location: 5-15-1 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu City
- Distance: Approximately 4km from Michio Shrine
- Access: Bus from Keio Line Chofu Station or Tsutsujigaoka Station
- Features: One of Tokyo’s leading ancient temples, also famous for its Jindaiji soba noodles. A renowned Tendai sect temple known for its national treasure, the Shakyamuni Buddha statue, and the Yakuyoke Gansan Daishi (a deity believed to ward off evil).
Kamiishihara Wakamiya Hachiman Shrine
- Location: 1-21-2 Kamiishihara, Chofu City
- Distance: Approximately 1.5km from Michio Shrine
- Access: 8-minute walk from Keio Line Nishichofu Station
- Features: The guardian shrine of the Kamiishihara area, a Hachiman shrine dedicated to Emperor Ojin.
Torakoma Shrine
- Location: 1-14-3 Sasucho, Chofu City
- Distance: Approximately 3km from Michio Shrine
- Access: Bus from Tsutsujigaoka Station on the Keio Line
- Features: A shrine with the unusual name “Torakoma” (Tiger Lone Worm), attracting local devotion.
Attractions in the Tobitakyu Area
The Tobitakyu area, where Michio Shrine is located, has several spots worth visiting in conjunction with your pilgrimage.
Ajinomoto Stadium
A multi-purpose stadium located a 5-minute walk from Tobitakyu Station. It’s a popular home stadium for FC Tokyo and Tokyo Verdy, beloved by soccer fans. It’s also used as a concert venue, and is bustling with people on event days.
Tokyo Metropolitan Musashino Forest Park
A vast metropolitan park adjacent to Chofu Airport. With its lawn area and playground equipment, it’s a popular spot for families. The former site of Michio Shrine is believed to have been in this area.
Chofu Airport
This airport is exclusively for small aircraft and has regular flights to the Izu Islands. From the observation deck, you can see planes taking off and landing up close.
Best Season for Visiting Michio Shrine
Annual Festival (Third Sunday of September)
The annual festival of Michio Shrine is held every year on the third Sunday of September. It’s the day when local people gather and the most important Shinto ritual of the year takes place. The usually quiet shrine grounds become lively on this day, reflecting the strong sense of community.
New Year’s Visit (January 1st-3rd)
The New Year’s visit is also a time when local people come to the shrine. While it’s not as crowded as large shrines, you can enjoy a warm, community-based New Year’s visit.
Scenery of the Four Seasons
- Spring: A beautiful season with cherry blossoms in the surrounding area.
- Summer: Enjoy the cool breeze in the lush green grounds.
- Autumn: The time of the annual festival, with pleasant weather.
- Winter: A tranquil atmosphere for worship.
Chofu Sightseeing to Enjoy Alongside a Visit to Michio Shrine
Chofu Gourmet
Chofu City is famous for its Jindaiji soba noodles, but there are also many delicious restaurants scattered around Tobitakyu. Enjoying local cuisine, including stadium food, before or after your visit is highly recommended.
Historical Walks in Chofu
Chofu City is a region with a long history, and there are many historical sites, shrines, and temples within the city. Starting from Michio Shrine, it would be interesting to create a walking course exploring Chofu’s history.
Summary | The Guardian Shrine of Tobitakyu, Rooted in the Community
Michio Shrine is a historical shrine located in Tobitakyu, Chofu City, Tokyo. Having undergone a history of mergers during the Meiji era and relocation during the Showa era, this shrine has continued to attract the faith of the local people.
Despite its convenient location just a 5-minute walk from Tobitakyu Station, it is a rare shrine where you can worship in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Please stop by before or after events at Ajinomoto Stadium, or when sightseeing in Chofu.
The enshrined deity, Ukemochi-no-Mikoto, is the god of food and fertility. Why not visit to express gratitude for daily meals, pray for business prosperity, and pray for a bountiful harvest?
Nestled quietly in a residential area, Michio Shrine is a peaceful space that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Please be sure to visit when you are in Chofu City.
