Tokyo Daijingu is a Shinto shrine in Chiyoda, a short walk from Iidabashi Station. Founded in 1880 as a place to worship Ise Jingu from Tokyo, it is closely associated with prayers for love and lasting relationships. It was also the first shrine in Japan to hold a Shinto wedding ceremony. The grounds are small and quiet, with lanterns, amulets and smaller shrines to explore. You can pray at the main hall, write a wish on an ema plaque or return an old amulet respectfully.
A place to worship Ise Jingu in Tokyo
Tokyo Daijingu was founded in 1880 as a place where people in Tokyo could worship Ise Jingu without making the journey to Mie Prefecture. It is dedicated to Amaterasu and Toyoke, among other deities. The shrine was originally in Hibiya and moved to Chiyoda after the Great Kanto Earthquake.
Its connection to Ise Jingu is why it is often called Tokyo’s Ise Shrine. Today, it remains a place of prayer for local residents as well as people visiting to seek blessings for love and relationships.
Matchmaking prayers and Shinto weddings
The shrine is especially associated with enmusubi, prayers for bonds and relationships. Its reputation draws people hoping to find love, as well as couples praying for a strong relationship. Amulets and ema, wooden plaques for written wishes, are available on the grounds.
Tokyo Daijingu is also linked to the beginnings of Shinto wedding ceremonies in Japan. It was the first shrine to hold a ceremony in this style, and weddings continue to take place at the shrine. A large hall beside the shrine is used for events, including weddings.
Rituals and details on the grounds
At the main hall, visitors can make an offering and pray. A 5-yen coin is commonly brought for this purpose. Before approaching, wash and rinse your hands, and follow the customary gestures: bow twice, clap twice, make your prayer, then bow once more.
The compact grounds have lanterns, amulets and smaller shrines. Look for Inome patterns, heart-shaped designs said to ward off evil, around the site. If you have an old amulet to return, use the designated place rather than leaving it elsewhere on the grounds.
Perguntas frequentes
What is Tokyo Daijingu known for?
It is known for prayers for love and relationships, and for its connection to the beginnings of Shinto wedding ceremonies in Japan.
Why was Tokyo Daijingu founded?
It was established in 1880 as a place for people in Tokyo to worship Ise Jingu from afar.
How do you get to Tokyo Daijingu?
The shrine is a short walk from Iidabashi Station, served by JR and subway lines.
What should I do before praying at the main hall?
Wash and rinse your hands before approaching. The customary prayer gestures are two bows, two claps, a prayer, then one final bow.
