New Kawa Tenjin Shrine, located in the heart of Setagaya Ward, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Tenjin, the deity of learning and literature. The shrine's name, 'New Kawa,' refers to its proximity to the New Kawa River. Founded during the Edo period (1603-1868), the shrine has played an important role in the local community as a center for education and scholarship.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tenjin
- Kami enshrined
- Tenjin, Futsunami-no-kami
- Coordinates
- 35.6815869, 139.5779533
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's museum to learn about its history and significance before taking a stroll along the New Kawa River, which runs behind the shrine.
Cultural notes
Tenjin is revered at this shrine for his role as patron of education and the arts. The shrine also celebrates the annual Tenjin Matsuri festival in May, featuring traditional dances, music, and food vendors.
Historical note
The shrine was established during the Edo period, specifically in 1630, by Hachibei Tokugawa, a high-ranking official of the Tokugawa shogunate.