Located in the heart of Setagaya Ward, Tama Hills, in western Tokyo, is the ancient Shinto shrine known as Yagyuu Yamato no Okami no Mikasa Hoshitotsu, but it was renamed to Suginami-no-mikasa Hoshitotsu, and then finally to Sugiyama Shrine, which is where the name 'Sugiyama' comes from. The Sugiyama Shrine is one of the few Shinto shrines in Japan that dates back to before the Meiji period (1868-1912). Founded in 718 AD during the Nara period, it originally was known as Yagyuu Yamato no Mikasa Hoshitotsu but its name changed over time. The shrine is famous for housing a statue of Inari, the Shinto god of rice, agriculture and fertility, who is believed to watch over the local crops. Visitors can admire this ancient deity, along with those of other kami such as Tsukuyomi, Okuninushi, and Amaterasu, who are enshrined in the shrine's Haiden (main hall) and Honden (main sanctuary).
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, Tsukuyomi, Okuninushi, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 35.5113761, 139.544197
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's historic significance, try to visit early in the morning or late in the evening when it is less crowded, allowing you to fully enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Cultural notes
This Shinto shrine connects with Japanese mythology through its association with rice and fertility. Inari, the kami enshrined here, plays a vital role in the annual Rice Viewing Festival (, Matsuri) that takes place on July 17th in Tokyo's Ueno Park, but also has other connections to the myth of Inari Okami.
Historical note
Founded in 718 AD during the Nara period.