⛩️ Shitaya Shrine

📝 Introduction

The Inari Shrine, which originated in the Nara period, is also the source of the local place name.

📖 Details

Built in the second year of Tenpyō (730 AD), this shrine is known as "the oldest Inari shrine in the city." It enshrines Ōkuninushi, the son of Susanoo, who governs grains and provides deep protection for industries. It is said to bless commercial prosperity and family safety. Since ancient times, it has been worshipped under the name "Shōichii Ichi Shitaya Inari Shrine," which is why the area is also called "Inari Town." In the fifth year of Meiji (1872), it was renamed "Shitaya Shrine." The "Shitaya Shrine Grand Festival," with a history of over a thousand years, is quite famous and is said to be "the oldest summer festival in the downtown area." During the festival, around 140 stalls are set up around the shrine, creating a lively atmosphere. Additionally, in the tenth year of Kansei (1798), this area was the first to host a "yose" (a variety theater), and a stone monument marking the "origin of yose" stands within the precincts. The flower water basin in the shrine is also very popular, with vibrant seasonal flowers displayed every month on the first day to adorn the hand-washing area. By mid or late in the month, the flowers may be removed. Furthermore, there are limited edition goshuin (shrine stamps) available each month, so remember to bring your goshuin-chō (stamp book) before you set out.

⭐ Highlights

Famous for being the oldest Inari shrine in the city. It can bless business prosperity and family safety. The summer festival, "Shitaya Shrine Grand Festival," has a history of over a thousand years. Within the grounds stands a monument marking the "origin of the yose" (Japanese variety show). The flower water offering, adorned with seasonal flowers, is very popular.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you provide foreign language manuals? (If so, please let me know which languages are available.)

A: No.

Q: Do you have a goshuin?

A: There are two shrines: Yatogami Shrine (有下谷神社) and Takuei Inari Shrine (隆榮稻荷神社), which alternate each month.

Q: Is there a parking lot?

A: No. But there is a toll booth nearby.

Q: Is there a coin-operated locker?

A: No.

📍 Contact & Information

📍 Address

3-29-8 Higashi Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo

📞 Phone

03-3831-1488 (Office hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM)

🚇 Transport

(1) About a 2-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Ginza Line "Inaricho" Station. (2) About a 5-minute walk from Tokyo Metro Oedo Line "Shin-Okachimachi" Station. (3) About a 6-minute walk from JR Yamanote Line "Ueno" Station.

🏷️ Tags

Tokyo

🏯 Japan Travel FAQ

🌸 Travel to Japan made easy with our comprehensive FAQ. Get the answers you need to plan your perfect trip.

© 2023-2025 Copyright: Japan Travel FAQ | 🗾 Your Guide to Japan