Karasumori Shrine

Karasumori Shrine
烏森神社
Karasumori Jinja
Religion
AffiliationShinto
Location
Location2-15-5 Shinbashi, Minato, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan
Location in Tokyo
Coordinates35°40′00.4″N 139°45′24.5″E / 35.666778°N 139.756806°E / 35.666778; 139.756806
Architecture
Established940
Website
http://karasumorijinja.or.jp/
Glossary of Shinto

Karasumori Shrine (烏森神社, Karasumori Jinja) is a Shinto shrine located in the Shinbashi district of Minato, Tokyo, Japan. The name "Karasumori" literally means "crow forest". It is dedicated to Ukanomitama (Inari Ōkami), Ame-no-Uzume, and Ninigi-no-Mikoto. The shrine is situated near Shinbashi Station and serves as a place of worship for local residents and office workers in the surrounding commercial area.

History

Karasumori Shrine was established in 940, during the third year of the Tengyō era. It is traditionally associated with the worship of Inari Ōkami, a deity of prosperity, agriculture, and business success.

Over time, the surrounding Shinbashi area developed into a major transportation and business hub in Tokyo. Despite the urbanisation of the area, the shrine has remained an active religious site and continues to attract visitors seeking blessings for success and protection.

Description

The shrine is located in a compact urban setting surrounded by modern buildings. Unlike many larger shrines, Karasumori Shrine is notable for its relatively small grounds and contemporary architectural elements.

It is particularly known for its distinctive coloured votive plaques and charms (ema and omamori), which are associated with specific wishes such as success in business, love, and protection from misfortune. These colourful offerings differentiate it from more traditional shrines.

Deities

The shrine enshrines the following deities:

See also

References

  • "烏森神社" (in Japanese). Tokyo Jinjacho. Retrieved 19 March 2026.