The birthplace of Tori no Ichi Fair! Big ‘Nade Okame’ brings visitors various good luck, “Otori Shrine”

Do you know “Tori no Ichi Fair” (酉の市) held every November all over Japan, which is characterized by the good luck charm ‘Kumade(熊手, traditional bamboo rake)? This fair is said to be firstly started at “Otori Shrine” (鷲神社) located a 10-minute walk from Sensoji Temple. Then, we’re going to introduce Ohtori Shrine’s history and highlights.

Although the year of its foundation is unknown, it is said to be the place where Japanese legendary hero ‘Yamato Takeru no Mikoto’ prayed for his victory. When he visited this Shrine in November on the day of the rooster in Chinese zodiac calendar, he celebrated his victory by hanging up Kumade, one of the armors, on a pine tree.
This story is believed to the origin of Tori no Ichi Fair.

Before step into the approach to the shrine, look up the upper left of the gate. A huge rake looking like bringing big good fortune welcomes you. It is filled with traditional Japanese lucky charms such as sea bream, Maneki Neko and Daruma, and replaced with a different design every year, so you should pay attention.

hen you pass through the torii gate and walk on the approach, the main hall appears. On an offering box which is installed in front of the main hall, there is a big ‘Okame’ with an impressive smile. It’s called ‘Nade Okame’, which is believed to bring various good luck depending on the place that you stroke. Some examples are as follows.
-Being more intelligent by stroking her forehead.
-Having a bright view of the future by stroking her eyes.
-Having more power to make money by stroking her nose.
-Being fulfilled in love and by stroking her right cheek, and being healthier by doing her left one.
-Enabling you to escape from disasters by stroking her mouth.
-Enabling you to settle things peacefully by stroking clockwise from her chin.
After throwing money into the offering box, bow twice and clap your hands twice, pray and bow again. Moreover, don’t forget to stroke Nadeokame!