About Koami Shrine
Koami Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Koami-cho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo. During the Tokyo air raids of World War II, while the surrounding area was reduced to rubble, the shrine miraculously escaped destruction. Because of this, it is widely revered as a “god of good fortune and protection against evil.”
Benefits
Good Fortune and Protection from Evil
There is an anecdote that during the Tokyo air raids, all soldiers who received amulets from Koami Shrine before going to war returned safely. This “good fortune” benefit continues to attract many worshippers today.
Increased Financial Luck
It is said that washing money in the “Money Washing Well” on the shrine grounds will increase your financial luck. A sieve and ladle are provided, allowing you to wash coins and banknotes.
Other Benefits
- Business Prosperity: Due to its location in Nihonbashi, a commercial center.
- Academic Success: Because Benzaiten (the goddess of fortune) is enshrined here.
- Health and Longevity: Fukurokuju (the god of wealth and prosperity) is also enshrined here.
Points to Note During Your Visit
Wooden Dragon Carvings
The shrine features two magnificent wooden dragon carvings. Positioned as an ascending and descending dragon, the exquisite carving techniques can be admired up close. As dragons are considered divine beasts that control water, they also symbolize protection against fire.
Money-Washing Well
The “Money-Washing Well,” located to the right of the main hall, is a representative spot for visitors to Koami Shrine.
How to Worship:
- First, complete your prayers at the main shrine.
- Move to the money-washing well and place coins and banknotes in the basket.
- Wash and purify them with the clean water using the ladle.
- Carefully take the purified money home and keep it in your wallet or wallet.
Tokyo Money-Washing Benzaiten
The shrine grounds enshrine Benzaiten and are affectionately known as “Tokyo Money-Washing Benzaiten.” It is believed to bring blessings for improvement in performing arts and the bestowal of wisdom.
Silkworm Cocoon Fortune Slips
These cute silkworm cocoon-shaped fortune slips are popular. A fortune slip is inside, and after drawing it, you can take it home as a lucky charm.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
- Shrine Building: A historical building that survived the ravages of war
- Fukurokuju Statue: One of the Seven Lucky Gods of Nihonbashi
- Sacred Tree: A large tree protecting the shrine grounds
- Amulet and Goshuin (stamp) Shop: Various amulets and Goshuin are available
Access
Access by Train
Nearest Station:
- 5-minute walk from Exit A2 of Ningyocho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
- 10-minute walk from Exit 8 of Suitengumae Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line
- 7-minute walk from Exit A5 of Ningyocho Station on the Toei Asakusa Line
Ningyocho Station is the most convenient. The route through Amazake Yokocho offers a chance to enjoy the atmosphere of old Tokyo while visiting the shrine.
Location
16-23 Koamicho, Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0016
Visiting Hours
- Open for worship (Shrine office open from 9:00 to 18:00)
- Same hours for receiving Goshuin (shrine stamps)
Points to Note When Visiting
- The shrine grounds are small, so please be considerate of others during busy times.
- There may be a queue for the money-washing well.
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other worshippers.
- The surrounding area is residential, so please worship quietly.
Surrounding Area Information
Koami Shrine is located in the downtown area of Nihonbashi, and nearby attractions include:
- Amazake Yokocho: A charming street lined with long-established restaurants
- Suitengu: A shrine famous for prayers for safe childbirth
- Ningyocho Shopping Street: A street lined with traditional shops
After visiting the shrine, we recommend enjoying the gourmet food of Ningyocho.
