TOKYO SKYTREE®︎’s tutelary deity “Ushijima Shrine” with the very rare type of shrine gate ‘Minowa Torii’

“Ushijima Shrine (牛嶋神社)” is located in Sumida Park on the opposite bank of Asakusa. It is a prestigious shrine that is the general guardian of the commercial and industrial district in the southern part of Sumida Ward and is known as the tutelary deity of TOKYO SKYTREE®︎.

Ushijima Shrine has a very long history since 860. It has been carefully protected with deep faith gained from Minamoto no Yoritomo (源頼朝, 1147-1199) and the Tokugawa Shogunate.

In the precincts surrounded by abundant trees with a sacred and pure atmosphere, there are lots of things to see – such as one of the largest main halls of shrines in Tokyo made with cypress trees and Koume InariShrine (小梅稲荷神社) which is believed to give good luck in harvesting and business. Above all, ‘Minowa Torii (三輪鳥居)’, a combination of big and small torii gates, will catch your eyes. Its origin is unknown, but it’s a rare torii that can only be seen at about 10 shrines even in Japan with more than 85,000 shrines. The torii is said to be made of Japanese cypress trees and makes you feel the warmth calming with dignity. 
　

Also, on the right side facing the main hall, there is ‘Nadeushi (撫牛)’, a statue of the cow – it is believed to cure diseases you have if you stroke the same part as the bad part of the body. It has the power to make not only your body but also your mind better, so don’t miss it. 
By the way, you can see TOKYO SKYTREE®︎ from the precincts. In the coming season, the cherry blossoms colors here and the surroundings. Why not visit here to boost energy for your mind and body while feeling the arrival of spring?