About Izumo Taisha Tokyo Branch Shrine
Izumo Taisha Tokyo Branch Shrine is a branch shrine of Izumo Taisha, located in Izumo City, Shimane Prefecture. Founded in 1878 (Meiji 11), it is located in Roppongi, Minato Ward, Tokyo, a central location in the city, yet it enshrines the same deity as the main shrine, Okuninushi-no-Okami.
As a valuable shrine where one can receive the divine blessings of Izumo Taisha, nationally known as the god of matchmaking, it attracts many worshippers daily.
Deity and Blessings
Deity
Okuninushi-no-Okami is the principal deity enshrined here. Okuninushi-no-Okami is a god of nation-building who appears in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and is also affectionately known as “Daikoku-sama.”
Main Benefits
- Matchmaking: Not only for romantic relationships, but also for forging good connections in all aspects of life, such as work, friendships, and family relationships.
- Marital Harmony: Divine blessings for a harmonious marriage and family life.
- Business Prosperity: For the development of businesses and the flourishing of trade.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: For improved luck and the inviting of good fortune.
- Healing from Illness: For prayers for good health and recovery from illness.
Izumo Taisha’s matchmaking has a deeper meaning, encompassing not only the fulfillment of romantic relationships, but also the forging of good “connections” in all aspects of life, such as between people, between people and work, between people and land, etc.
Points to Note When Visiting
Worship Etiquette
Izumo Taisha has unique worship etiquette that differs from that of typical shrines.
- Two bows, four claps, one bow: While most shrines follow the “two bows, two claps, one bow” ritual, Izumo Taisha Shrine performs four claps.
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin before praying.
- Place your offering in the offering box and ring the bell.
- Bow deeply twice.
- Clap your hands four times.
- Pray with all your heart.
- Finally, bow deeply once.
Visiting Hours
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
- Prayer Reception Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Special opening hours during the first three days of the New Year.
Recommended Time to Visit
- October (Lunar Calendar) (Month of the Gods): In Izumo, this is considered the month when all the gods of Japan gather, and the divine blessings are said to be particularly strong.
- Enmusubi Taisai (Grand Festival for Matchmaking): A special festival held several times a year.
- Weekday Mornings: Relatively uncrowded, allowing for a peaceful visit.
Items Offered & Amulets
Popular Amulets
- Enmusubi Amulet: A classic amulet for wishing for good relationships. Features a beautiful red and white braided cord.
- Enmusubi Amulet: A small, easy-to-carry type.
- Enmusubi Thread: A red thread to sew onto clothing or accessories.
- Kouen Musubi Amulet: An amulet for forging a wide range of relationships, including work and friendships.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
The goshuin at Izumo Taisha Tokyo Branch Shrine is characterized by its powerful calligraphy. The offering fee is usually 300-500 yen. Goshuin notebooks are also available, and the original Izumo Taisha designs are popular.
Access and Basic Information
Location
7-18-5 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 106-0032
Access by Train
- Roppongi Station (Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line/Toei Oedo Line): Approximately 1 minute walk from Exit 2
- Nogizaka Station (Tokyo Metro Chiyoda Line): Approximately 6 minute walk from Exit 5
Very close to Roppongi Station, a highly convenient location in the heart of Tokyo.
Access by Car
There is no dedicated parking lot. You will need to use nearby coin-operated parking lots, but using public transportation is recommended.
Inquiries
- Phone: 03-3401-9301
- Official Website: Search for “Izumo Taisha Tokyo Branch Shrine”
Nearby Attractions
Given its location in Roppongi, exploring the surrounding area after your visit is also recommended.
- Roppongi Hills: 5-minute walk, shopping and observation deck
- The National Art Center, Tokyo: 10-minute walk, contemporary art exhibitions
- Tokyo Midtown: 8-minute walk, commercial facilities and green space
- Nogi Shrine: 10-minute walk, shrine dedicated to a famous general of the Meiji era
Points to Note When Visiting
- The shrine grounds are relatively compact, so please be considerate of others when visiting in groups.
- Photography is permitted, but please be mindful of other visitors.
- Located in a quiet residential area, please refrain from loud conversations.
- If you wish to receive a prayer service, please call in advance to confirm.
Summary
Izumo Taisha Tokyo Branch Shrine is a valuable shrine where you can receive the divine blessings of the authentic Izumo Taisha Shrine despite being in the heart of Tokyo. It is recommended not only for those wishing for matchmaking but also for those seeking good fortune in all aspects of life. With good access, it is a popular urban power spot that you can easily visit in your daily life.
