Tomioka Hachiman Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Monzen-Nakacho, Koto City, founded in 1627. Its grounds bring together stone monuments to sumo, a statue of surveyor Ino Tadataka, landscaped corners and a koi pond. Look for the golden mikoshi, or portable shrine, displayed on the grounds. The shrine is closely tied to sumo history and the Fukagawa Hachiman Festival, held on August 15. Markets and festival events add another reason to check the calendar before you go.
A shrine founded in 1627
Tomioka Hachiman Shrine was founded in 1627 and became a central place of worship in Fukagawa. It is dedicated to Hachiman, a Shinto deity associated with warriors and archery. The shrine is also known as Fukagawa Hachiman Shrine.
The present main shrine building was reconstructed in 1956. Seventeen branch shrines stand within the precincts, each associated with different blessings, including luck with money, competition and marriage.
Sumo monuments and the golden mikoshi
The grounds preserve links to sumo, with stone monuments connected to the sport. Early sumo tournaments were held here in the 1700s, and the shrine served for many years as Tokyo's official home of sumo.
Look for the statue of Ino Tadataka, the Edo-period surveyor who made the first complete map of Japan. He is said to have prayed at the shrine before setting out on each surveying journey. A large golden mikoshi, a portable shrine carried in festivals, is also on display.
Markets and festival dates
The Fukagawa Hachiman Festival is held on August 15 and is counted among Edo's major festivals. The shrine grounds also host markets, but their dates and character vary. Antiques markets are listed for the first, second, third and fifth Sundays of the month; flea markets take place on the 15th and 28th.
Check the shrine's website before travelling if you are planning around a market or festival. The grounds are also worth exploring on an ordinary day: the side garden and koi pond offer a quieter stop beyond the main shrine.
Häufige Fragen
When was Tomioka Hachiman Shrine founded?
The shrine was founded in 1627. Its current main building was reconstructed in 1956.
What can you see at Tomioka Hachiman Shrine?
The grounds include sumo-related stone monuments, a statue of surveyor Ino Tadataka, a koi pond and a golden mikoshi on display.
When is the Fukagawa Hachiman Festival?
It is held on August 15.
When are the markets at Tomioka Hachiman Shrine?
Antiques markets are held on the first, second, third and fifth Sundays of the month. Flea markets take place on the 15th and 28th; check the shrine website for updates.
