Complete Guide to Otori Shrine (Taito Ward, Tokyo) | History, Deities, and Access Information for “Otori-sama,” the Originator of the Tori-no-ichi Market
Otori Shrine, located in Senzoku, Taito Ward, Tokyo, is affectionately known as “Otori-sama” and is a representative shrine of Edo’s downtown area, attracting many worshippers from all over Japan every November during the Tori-no-ichi Market. It is believed to bring good fortune, business prosperity, career advancement, and family prosperity, and also enshrines Jurojin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Asakusa. This article provides a detailed introduction to Otori Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, highlights within the grounds, and access information.
Overview and Basic Information of Otori Shrine
Otori Shrine is located at 3-18-7 Senzoku, Taito Ward, Tokyo. Its official name is “Otori Shrine,” but it is widely known locally by the more familiar name “Otori-sama.” The shrine, with its impressive vermilion torii gate, is a valuable cultural asset that conveys the atmosphere of the Edo period and is loved by both local residents and tourists.
Location and Basic Data
Official Name: Otori Shrine
Address: 3-18-7 Senzoku, Taito-ku, Tokyo
Postal Code: 〒111-0031
Telephone Number: 03-3876-1515
Shrine Rank: Former Village Shrine
Annual Festival Date: Day of the Rooster in November (Tori-no-ichi Market)
Official Website: https://otorisama.or.jp/
Senzoku in Taito-ku is a historic town that has existed since the Edo period, formerly known as Asakusa Tanbo. Even today, the atmosphere of old Tokyo remains strong, and Otori Shrine functions as the spiritual center of this area.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Washijinja Shrine enshrines two deities, each with different origins and divine virtues.
Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto
Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto is a deity appearing in Japanese mythology. He is known as the god who created the strings for the stringed instrument used when Amaterasu Omikami hid in the Amano-Iwato cave, and when sacred music and dance were performed in front of the cave. He is also considered the ancestral deity of the Imbe clan of Awa Province (present-day Tokushima Prefecture) and has been worshipped as a god of pioneering and industrial development.
Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto is particularly revered as the guardian deity of the textile and spinning industries, and is believed to bring benefits of industrial promotion, technological advancement, and business prosperity. There are various theories about the origin of the name “Washi” (eagle), but the most likely is the legend that Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto performed sacred rituals using eagle feathers.
Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
Yamato Takeru no Mikoto was a prince of Emperor Keiko, the 12th emperor of Japan, and a representative heroic deity in Japanese mythology. Legend says that on his return from his eastern expedition, he prayed for victory in this area and achieved a resounding victory.
According to legend, when Yamato Takeru no Mikoto was conquering the eastern barbarians, he prayed for victory here, and upon his return, he visited again to perform a ritual of gratitude. Because of this story, Washijinja Shrine became a place of worship for those praying for victory in battle, good fortune, and success in life.
Jurojin (Asakusa’s Seven Lucky Gods)
Washijinja Shrine also enshrines Jurojin, one of Asakusa’s Seven Lucky Gods. Jurojin is known as the god of longevity and happiness, and is believed to bring good health, long life, and family safety. The Asakusa Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage is a popular route, attracting many visitors, especially during the New Year.
Main Benefits
The main benefits you can receive at Washijinja Shrine are as follows:
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: Overall improvement of luck
- Business Prosperity: Development and prosperity of your business
- Family Fortune: Prosperity and development of your family
- Career Advancement and Good Fortune: Success and promotion in your career
- Protection of Child-Rearing: Healthy growth of children
- Protection from Misfortune and Good Fortune: Warding off misfortune and inviting good fortune
- Healthy Longevity: Longevity benefits from Jurōjin (the god of longevity)
History of Washijinja Shrine
There are several theories regarding the founding of Washijinja Shrine, but the oldest records state that it has been enshrined in this area since ancient times as a shrine dedicated to Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto.
Founding and Ancient History
The origins of Washijinja Shrine are ancient, and one theory suggests that it dates back to the time of Yamato Takeru’s eastern expedition. Legend says that when Prince Yamato Takeru was on his campaign against the eastern barbarians, he prayed for victory here and, upon his safe return, built a shrine here and performed a ritual of gratitude.
Another legend says that the shrine originated when a family of the Awa Inbe clan, who considered Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto as their ancestral deity, migrated to this area and enshrined their ancestral god. In any case, it is certain that the shrine has existed as a center of faith in this region since ancient times.
Development during the Edo Period
During the Edo period, Washijinja Shrine experienced significant development. Especially from the mid-Edo period onward, the Tori-no-Ichi market became extremely popular among the common people, and Washijinja Shrine became widely known as the “birthplace of the Tori-no-Ichi market.”
At that time, there was a Nichiren Buddhist temple called Chokokuji adjacent to Washijinja Shrine, and during the era of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, the two temples jointly held the Tori-no-Ichi market. The townspeople of Edo affectionately called the shrine “Otorisama” and gathered at the Tori-no-ichi market to pray for good fortune, prosperity, and business success.
According to Edo period records, during the Tori-no-ichi market, the surrounding roads were filled with worshippers, and stalls selling kumade (decorative rakes) and food and drink lined the streets, creating one of the most bustling markets in Edo.
Changes After the Meiji Era
In the Meiji era, the Washijinja Shrine and Chokokuji Temple were separated due to the Shinto-Buddhist Separation Order. However, the two continued to cooperate in holding the Tori-no-ichi market, and even today, they jointly operate the “Asakusa Tori-no-ichi.”
After the Meiji Restoration, the shrine was ranked as a village shrine under the new shrine ranking system and continued to be revered as the guardian deity of the region. Even as the Taisho and Showa eras changed, Washijinja Shrine continued to play an important role as a spiritual pillar for the residents of Senzoku, Taito Ward, and as the center of the Tori-no-ichi market.
During the post-war reconstruction period, the shrine grounds were renovated, and the vermilion-lacquered shrine buildings and large torii gate seen today were completed. Even now, as the Heisei and Reiwa eras have progressed, the shrine continues to welcome many visitors, preserving tradition while also meeting the needs of the new era.
About the Tori-no-ichi Market
An essential part of discussing Washijinja Shrine is the “Tori-no-ichi Market,” held every November. Washijinja Shrine is known as the birthplace of the Tori-no-ichi Market, and it still hosts the largest Tori-no-ichi Market in Japan.
Origin and History of the Tori-no-ichi Market
The Tori-no-ichi Market is an annual festival held on the Day of the Rooster in November, a festival to pray for good fortune, prosperity, and business success. The “Rooster” is one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, and there are always one to three Days of the Rooster in November. The first Day of the Rooster is called “Ichi-no-Tori,” the next “Nino-Tori,” and in years with a third, it’s called “San-no-Tori.”
There are several theories about the origin of the Tori-no-Ichi market, but the most plausible one is that it originates from the story of Yamato Takeru. It is said that on his return from his eastern expedition, Yamato Takeru offered thanks for his victory at Washijinja Shrine on a Day of the Rooster in November, and this day was designated as the festival day.
During the Edo period, farmers would gather on Days of the Rooster after the harvest, offering chickens to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest. This custom gradually spread to merchants in urban areas, developing into a market where people prayed for business prosperity.
Origin and Meaning of the Kumade
The most famous item at the Tori-no-Ichi market is the “kumade” (rake). Kumade have been popular among merchants since the Edo period as lucky charms symbolizing “raking in good fortune” and “raking in gold and silver.”
Originally, the kumade (rakes) were simple, adorned with rice stalks and other auspicious symbols. Over time, the decorations became more elaborate, and today, ornate kumade are sold, featuring various lucky charms such as the Seven Lucky Gods, treasure ships, sea bream, and gold coins.
Bargaining is also a highlight of the Tori-no-ichi market. It’s believed that haggling for a lower price “brings in even more good fortune,” and the lively exchanges between buyers and sellers are a characteristic sight of the market. However, it’s considered proper etiquette to give the discounted amount as a “tip” after haggling.
Modern Tori-no-ichi Market
The current Asakusa Tori-no-ichi market is jointly held by Washijinja Shrine and Chokokuji Temple, and is a popular autumn event in Tokyo, attracting 700,000 to 800,000 visitors annually. During the market, approximately 150 stalls line the temple grounds and surrounding areas, selling not only kumade but also food and other lucky charms.
The market begins at midnight with the sound of the first drum, and many worshippers visit throughout the night and early morning. The “Ichino-Tori” (first Tori-no-Ichi) is particularly crowded, with the shrine grounds filled with people all day long.
In recent years, the number of foreign tourists has also increased, and it is attracting international attention as a traditional Japanese festival.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
The grounds of Washijinja Shrine contain many historical buildings and points of interest.
The Great Torii Gate
The vermilion-painted great torii gate, a symbol of Washijinja Shrine, stands out in the streets of Senzoku. Its vibrant vermilion color is believed to ward off evil and guide worshippers into the sacred area. During the Tori-no-Ichi period, long lines of worshippers pass through this great torii gate to enter the shrine grounds.
The Shrine Building
The current shrine building was rebuilt after the war, preserving the traditional style of shrine architecture while exuding a solemn atmosphere. The vermilion-lacquered shrine is regularly repaired and maintained in beautiful condition.
The carvings and decorations of the shrine feature auspicious motifs such as eagles and phoenixes, showcasing the finest Edo-period craftsmanship.
Water Basin
The water basin, where visitors purify themselves before praying, is also built in a traditional style. During the Tori-no-ichi market, in particular, many worshippers use it, so multiple ladles are provided.
Stroke Eagle (Nadewashi)
Within the shrine grounds is a statue of an eagle called the “Stroke Eagle.” It is believed that stroking this eagle will heal ailments and bring good fortune, attracting long lines of worshippers. It is said that stroking the eagle in different places brings different blessings; for example, stroking its head is said to bestow wisdom, while stroking its wings is said to grant soaring success.
Statue of Jurojin
A statue of Jurojin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Asakusa, is also enshrined on the shrine grounds. His long white beard and staff make him a beloved symbol of longevity and happiness. Visitors on the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage can receive a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) here.
Subsidiary Shrines
Within the grounds of Washijinja Shrine, several subsidiary shrines (Auxiliary Shrines and Minor Shrines) are also enshrined. Each enshrines a different deity and is believed to offer various blessings.
Access
Washijinja Shrine is accessible via multiple train lines and is relatively easy to reach from the city center.
Access by Train
Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
Nearest Station: Iriya Station
Approximately 7 minutes on foot from Exit 3 (North Exit)
Tsukuba Express (TX)
Nearest Station: Asakusa Station
Approximately 8 minutes on foot from the exit
Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line
Nearest Station: Minowa Station
Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the exit
Tobu Skytree Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Toei Asakusa Line
Nearest Station: Asakusa Station
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the exit
The most convenient is Iriya Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. Signage from the station to Washijinja Shrine is well-maintained, making it easy to find even for first-time visitors.
Access by Bus
Toei buses and the Taito Ward Circular Bus “Megurin” are also available. The nearest bus stops are “Senzoku” or “Ryusen,” from which it’s a few minutes’ walk.
Access by Car
If using the Metropolitan Expressway, the Iriya or Ueno exits are convenient. However, there is no dedicated parking lot around Washijinja Shrine, so you will need to use nearby coin-operated parking lots.
Especially during the Tori-no-Ichi festival, the surrounding roads become extremely congested and traffic restrictions are implemented, so we strongly recommend using public transportation.
Precautions During the Tori-no-Ichi Festival
During the Tori-no-Ichi festival (especially the first Tori-no-Ichi), hundreds of thousands of people visit annually, and the surrounding area becomes extremely congested. Please note the following:
- It may take several times longer than usual to get from the nearest station to the shrine.
- Congestion continues from late night to early morning.
- Traffic restrictions will be implemented on surrounding roads.
- Please take sufficient care of your valuables.
- Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Amulets
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
At Washijinja Shrine, in addition to the regular goshuin, you can also receive a special goshuin available only during the Tori-no-Ichi festival. Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) are available at the shrine office, and the offering fee is usually around 500 yen.
You can also get the Goshuin for the Asakusa Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage here. Special commemorative paper and stamp notebooks for the Seven Lucky Gods pilgrimage are also sold.
Amulets and Lucky Charms
Washijinja Shrine offers various amulets and lucky charms:
- Business Prosperity Amulet: An amulet for wishing for business prosperity
- Good Fortune Amulet: An amulet for general good fortune
- Career Advancement Amulet: An amulet for wishing for success in work
- Exorcism Amulet: An amulet to ward off misfortune
- Health and Longevity Amulet: An amulet to receive the blessings of Jurojin (the god of longevity)
- Traffic Safety Amulet: Protection from traffic accidents
During the Tori-no-ichi market, in addition to kumade (bamboo rakes), lucky charms such as “kakkome” are also sold.
Annual Events
At Washijinja Shrine, various annual events are held in addition to the Tori-no-ichi market.
Main Annual Events
January 1st – New Year’s Day Festival
A festival to celebrate the New Year and pray for peace throughout the year.
February 3rd – Setsubun Festival
A festival where beans are scattered to ward off evil and invite good fortune.
July – Summer Purification Ceremony
A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months.
November (Day of the Rooster) – Tori-no-ichi Market (Grand Festival)
The most important festival of the year.
December 31st – Great Purification Ceremony/New Year’s Eve Festival
A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities as the year comes to a close.
For detailed dates and times of these events, we recommend checking the official website.
Nearby Attractions
Around Washijinja Shrine, there are many spots where you can experience the history and culture of Asakusa.
Chokokuji Temple
A Nichiren Buddhist temple adjacent to Washijinja Shrine, it jointly hosts the Tori-no-ichi market. During the Edo period, it was integrated with Washijinja Shrine due to the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, but the cooperative relationship continued even after the Meiji Restoration’s separation of Shinto and Buddhism.
Yoshiwara Shrine
A shrine within walking distance, it was once worshipped as the guardian deity of the Yoshiwara pleasure district. Currently, it is believed to bring blessings for matchmaking and improvement in artistic skills.
Senso-ji Temple
Senso-ji Temple, one of Tokyo’s most representative tourist attractions, is about a 15-minute walk away. Many spots that evoke the atmosphere of Edo, such as Kaminarimon Gate and Nakamise Street, are located nearby.
Taito City Ichiyo Memorial Museum
A literary museum commemorating Higuchi Ichiyo, a female writer of the Meiji era. It is built on the site of Ryusen, where Ichiyo spent her later years, and is also close to Washijinja Shrine.
Manners and Points for Visiting
Here are some basic manners and points to keep in mind when visiting Washijinja Shrine.
Basic Worship Etiquette
- Passing Through the Torii Gate: Bow before passing through the gate.
- Purifying at the Water Basin: Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth.
- Walking the Path: The center is the path for the gods, so walk along the sides.
- Etiquette in Front of the Main Hall: Two bows, two claps, one bow (bow deeply twice, clap twice, bow deeply once).
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but consideration should be given to avoiding disturbing other worshippers or those participating in religious ceremonies. Photography inside the shrine buildings may be prohibited, so please check beforehand.
Attire
Everyday clothing is acceptable for worship, but it’s best to avoid overly casual attire. During the Tori-no-Ichi festival, the area can get crowded, so comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement and storage of valuables is recommended.
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but consideration should be given to avoiding disturbing other worshippers or those participating in religious ceremonies. ## Summary
Located in Senzoku, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Otori Shrine is a historic shrine known throughout Japan as the birthplace of the Tori-no-ichi market, and enshrines Amenohiwashi-no-Mikoto and Yamato Takeru-no-Mikoto as its deities. Affectionately known as “Otorisama,” it is believed to bring many blessings, including good fortune, business prosperity, and career advancement.
Every November, hundreds of thousands of people visit the Tori-no-ichi market, and the bustling scene of people seeking kumade (decorative rakes) has become a quintessential autumn scene in Tokyo. Jurojin, one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Asakusa, is also enshrined here, offering blessings for health and longevity.
With easy access—approximately a 7-minute walk from Iriya Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line—it’s a great place to visit in conjunction with Asakusa sightseeing. Why not pray for good fortune and business prosperity at Otori Shrine, where the history and traditions of Edo breathe life into?
The official website (https://otorisama.or.jp/) provides the latest information and event schedules, so it’s recommended to check it before your visit.
