Oji Shrine in Tokyo’s Kita Ward is a serene and historically rich Shinto sanctuary. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and traditional architecture, it offers a peaceful escape in the heart of the bustling city, embodying centuries of Japanese cultural and spiritual heritage.
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Location:
The shrine’s official name is Oji Jinja Shrine, located in Kita City, believed to be over 700 years old. The Oji Shrine is famous for Dengakumai dance and wedding.
It is one of the Jissha shrines of Tokyo.The devotees believe the gods as the protector of the city. They also think that these deities are the main gods bless to newlyweds and mothers.
It is one of the 10 famous shrines in Tokyo. The 10 famous shrines board list was kept in front of the main entrance, where the 10 shrines are written serially.
History:
According to the record, the Oji Shrine is situated on the hilltop of the Otonashi river. (The river is also called the Syakujii river.) It is believed to be built between 1321 and 1324.
Because of its strategic location, the Emperor chose the 10 most famous shrines as protector shrines of Edo(Tokyo), and Oji Shrine was one of these 10 famous shrines.
Honden:
The Main Shrine is called Honden. It is beautiful, and it can be seen from the main road. But even though it is near the main road, the atmosphere is quiet.
Besides, the shrine’s surrounding is very clean, which usually cannot be seen in other shrines.
The mikoshi, or portable shrine, which was kept at the main entrance, impresses me. It looks spotless and glittering.
Tori-no-ichi Festival is held in November, called Tori Day. However, the festival is held on December 6 at Oji Shrine.
It is worth mentioning that the Oji Inari shrine is very close to the Oji Shrine. Follow the road to the north in front of the shrine’s small street, and you will arrive at the Oji Inari shrine within five minutes.
Besides, it is also closed to Asukayama public park where three museums are located. Asukayama Public park is huge and it has good public facilities.
A couple monument is located in front of the Mikoshi Store. The monument is unique in features.
Ginko Tree:
A historical Ginko Tree is located near the main shrine.
The old Ginko Tree is enormous in structure. Tokyo Metropolitan Board of Education placed a signboard under the tree. It explains the tree’s features, measuring the height is 24.2 meters and the trunk circumference is 5.2 meters.
If the shrine is built-in between 1321 and 1324, then the Ginko Tree is almost 700 years old.
Cherry Viewing:
The rocky path between Oji Station and Oji Shrine is one of the most famous Cherry Blossom viewing spots in Kita City.
There is a short-cut pedestrian road from Oji Station to the shrine. However, those who use the train usually prefer the road to Oji Shrine from the station.
The rocky path and the small stream become full of people for picnics and parties. Many tourists love visiting during this time.
Besides, it is also very closed to Asukayama Park. However, it takes only 5 minutes to walk from the Ginko Tree, located just on the other side of the main road.
Admission: Free
Opening hours:
9:00-17:00
Restaurant Tip:
Oji Station is huge, but probably you are new here. You may wonder what to eat and which restaurant is good, Japanese or French!
Luckily, I have a tremendous recommendation for you. If you like Indian, then go to NEWAPASA Restaurant and Bar.
Honestly, I don’t have any affiliate with this restaurant. The restaurant is good, and I want my readers to enjoy their trip and food in a good restaurant.
NEWAPASA Restaurant and Bar
1-22-2 Ōji Kita City Tokyo-to
+81-50-5571-6504 (reservation)
Subway Namboku Line Oji Station Exit 4 and 2 minutes walk
JR Oji Station North Exit / Central Exit 3 minutes walk
232 meters from Oji Ekimae
Access:
Nearest Station: Oji Station
JR Keihin-Tohoku Line & Namboku Line
2 minutes walk from the station (North Exit)
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