About Akasaka Hikawa Shrine
Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is a shrine with a history of approximately 280 years, having been relocated to its current location in 1730 (Kyoho 15) by order of the eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune. Located on a hill in Akasaka, Minato Ward, it is cherished as a precious space that maintains a tranquil atmosphere despite being in the heart of the city.
Deities and History
The main deities enshrined are Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto, and Onamuchi-no-Mikoto. Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto are a married couple in Japanese mythology, and are widely worshipped as gods of matchmaking.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Buildings
The main hall, built in 1730, is a beautiful reddish-brown (vermilion-painted) shrine building, a valuable cultural asset that preserves the architectural style of the mid-Edo period. Designated as a tangible cultural property of Tokyo, it showcases the pinnacle of architectural technology from that era.
The Great Ginkgo Tree
The great ginkgo tree, a symbol of the temple grounds, is a sacred tree estimated to be over 400 years old. Standing approximately 25 meters tall with a trunk circumference of about 7 meters, this giant tree turns golden in autumn, delighting visitors. This ginkgo tree is designated as a natural monument of Minato Ward.
Shigo Inari Shrine
The Shigo Inari shrine within the temple grounds is worshipped as the god of business prosperity and abundant harvests. The approach lined with red torii gates creates a mystical atmosphere that is hard to believe is in the heart of the city.
Benefits
Matchmaking
Because it enshrines a married couple of deities, it is particularly famous for its blessings related to successful love and finding a good partner. The “Matchmaking Pilgrimage,” held once a month, is a popular event for visitors seeking good relationships, and is limited to 30 people with advance registration required.
Protection from Evil and Family Safety
Susanoo-no-Mikoto is also known as the god of protection from evil, and many worshippers visit to pray for protection from evil during their unlucky years and for family safety.
Other Benefits
- Business Prosperity: Prosperity in business through Shigo Inari
- Academic Success: Protection of wisdom and learning through Oonamuchi-no-Mikoto
- Healing from Illness: Prayers for health and longevity
Points to Note When Worshiping
Proper Worship Etiquette
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin (left hand → right hand → mouth → left hand)
- Perform “two bows, two claps, one bow” in front of the main shrine
- Put your hands together in prayer before the sacred ginkgo tree
- Also worship at Shigo Inari
Recommended Time to Visit
Early morning (around 7-8 am) is less crowded, allowing for a peaceful and tranquil visit. During the autumn foliage season (mid- to late November), the large ginkgo trees are at their peak, offering a particularly beautiful view.
Items Offered
- Enmusubi Omamori: A pair of amulets in pink and light blue
- Shigo Omamori: An amulet for business prosperity
- Ginkgo Omamori: An amulet for good fortune, featuring a large ginkgo tree as its motif
- Goshuin: In addition to the regular goshuin, seasonal goshuin are also available.
Access
Access by Train
- Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line “Akasaka Station”: 8-minute walk from Exit 6
- Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line/Toei Oedo Line “Roppongi Station”: 8-minute walk from Exit 7
- Tokyo Metro Namboku Line/Ginza Line “Tameike-Sanno Station”: 8-minute walk from Exit 13
Access by Bus
Get off at “Akasaka Hikawa Jinja-mae” bus stop (Toei Bus) and it’s right there.
Access by Car
Approximately 5 minutes from the Shuto Expressway Inner Circular Route “Kasumigaseki IC”. However, there is no dedicated parking lot, so please use nearby coin parking. ## Basic Information
- Address: 6-10-12 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Visiting Hours: 6:00~17:30 (may vary depending on the season)
- Shrine Office Hours: 9:00~17:00
- Admission Fee: Free
- Official Website: See Akasaka Hikawa Shrine’s official website
Summary
Akasaka Hikawa Shrine is a shrine that combines a history dating back to the Edo period with the convenience of being in the heart of Tokyo. It is a recommended spot not only for those seeking blessings for matchmaking, but also for those who want to calm their minds in a quiet space. Please visit and experience the changing seasons.
