⛩️ Suitengu Shrine (水天宮)水天宮

Suitengu is located in the lively neighborhood of Ningyocho in the heart of Tokyo, exuding the charm of the downtown area. In 1818, the 9th lord of the Kurume clan, Arima Nagateru, brought a spirit from Suitengu in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, to his residence in Mita Akabanebashi, marking the origin of Tokyo Suitengu. It primarily enshrines the deity Amenokagūrasu, who is the first to appear in Japanese mythology, as well as Emperor Antoku of the Heike clan, the two Empresses, and the four deities of Kenrei Monin. Known for its powerful divine blessings, Suitengu is widely revered for granting safe childbirth, fertility, and vital life force. During the Edo period, a pregnant woman who visited to pray tied a bell cord (suzunoe) around her waist as a makeshift binding. Remarkably, she gave birth to a healthy baby, and thus Suitengu gained fame, attracting many worshippers. Additionally, there is a bronze statue of the “Kappa dog” representing fertility and safe childbirth. It is said that by touching the statue corresponding to one’s zodiac sign, one can receive blessings for safe delivery, fertility, disaster prevention, and good health. Within the shrine grounds, the “Benzaiten” altar is part of the "Nihonbashi Seven Lucky Gods" pilgrimage route, renowned for blessings related to the arts, academics, and financial fortune. The statue can be viewed on the 5th of each month and on days associated with the snake zodiac sign.

On the day of the Dog (戌之日), many worshippers come to pray for safe delivery and fertility. They offer their wishes to the powerful deity capable of fulfilling their desires. Surrounding the bronze statue of the "Child-Bearing Dog" are the twelve zodiac signs; by touching their own zodiac, individuals can receive blessings. Both adults and children can gain the strong powers of personal vitality, health, and fortune. The special お札 (oshirase) for the day of the Dog and the seasonal 御朱印 (go-shuin) from 宝生辨財天 (Hōshō Benzaiten), which is limited to the day of the Snake (巳之日), are particularly popular.