Katchaman’s Amazing JAPAN guide at Tokyo Akasaka Power Spot (Sacred Place) ”Hikawa Jinja Shrine”

This shrine is dedicated to Bishamon-ten, protector from disease and disaster and fulfiller of prayers. There are various stories about the establishment of this shrine, but it was relocated to this site during the Manji Period (1658-61) from a spot near Ippon-matsu, about 300 meters north. It is revered as one of the seven Edo Hikawa Shrines. Across from the shrine, Ando Memorial Church, the Argentine and Pakistani embassies, Nishimachi International School line Ipponmatsu-zaka and visits by foreigners are not rare. Passing through the torii, there is a repository for a large mikoshi (portable shrine) on the right and a splendid stage for sacred dances on its left. The main hall is a brilliant vermilion and the contrast with the tall apartment buildings behind you is impressive.