Ushijima Shrine
1 Chome-4-5 Mukojima, Japan, Tokyo, 131-0033
It’s fitting that Tokyo’s Ushijima Shrine (Ushijima Jinja) is named after the proverbially strong ox (ushi in Japanese), as it has survived major earthquakes and war. Established in the ninth century, it’s one of Tokyo’s oldest surviving shrines and is said to protect residents on the Sumida River’s east bank, just as the more famous—and older—Senso-ji Temple protects those on the west.
The basics
Ushijima Shrine is rather unusual in featuring an ox as its guardian, rather than a fox or a lion, and visitors are encouraged to rub the bronze nade-ushi ox statue for good health. This isn’t the only unusual thing about the shrine: The torii gate has three entrances, rather than the normal one, because the shrine is dedicated to three gods.
Ushijima Shrine is across the river from popular Asakusa and its major religious sites, but is typically much quieter. Most people visit independently if they’re especially interested in Japanese religious buildings or keen to check out offbeat locations.
Things to know before you go
Some people believe that if you have a physical ailment, patting the nade-ushi ox on the same part of its body as your affliction can help. Give it a try.
Admission is free, but you might want to leave a small offering in the donation box.
The shrine isn’t very large, so it doesn't take long to explore. It is right beside the attractive Sumida Park, which is worth a stroll.
How to get there
Ushijima Shrine is on the east bank of the Sumida River. Take the Asakusa Line to Honjo Azumabashi station or the Tobu Skytree Line to Tokyo Skytree station: the shrine is about a 10-minute walk from both. Alternatively, take the Ginza or Toei Asakusa lines to Asakusa, also about a 10-minute walk away, across the river.
When to get there
A major festival—the Ushijima Jinja Taisai—is held at the shrine every five years, with the next scheduled for 2027. During the 3-day festival in mid-September, bull-drawn carriages and portable shrines are pulled through the streets. If you’re not in Tokyo during this once-in-five-year event, visit the shrine at almost any time as it’s open daily from early morning until early evening.
Visit Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple
Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple is considered the counterpart to Ushijima Shrine, although it is much busier with tourists. Despite Senso-ji being a Buddhist temple and Ushijima a Shinto shrine, each is believed to protect its respective side of the river. It’s worth visiting both to appreciate the differences and to contrast a major tourist attraction with a beloved local place of worship.
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