Rokugeishin Travel Guide

In the bustling Asakusa district of Tokyo, Rokugeishin stands as a miniature shrine dedicated to the 'six gods of arts'. This unique monument, also known as Rokugeishin Innen, was created in 1996 to honor the entertainment history of Tokyo's bygone eras. Located in Rokku, Asakusa's historic Broadway, the shrine features bronze statuettes modeled after artists from the Taisho and early Showa periods.The Rokugeishin consists of six deities: Utai-gami (singing god), Kanade-gami (music-playing god), Hanashi-gami (talking god), Odoke-gami (clowning god), Enji-gami (acting god), and Odori-gami (dancing god). Rokku, where the shrine resides, was once a major entertainment district, hosting cabarets, theaters, and Japan's first cinema. Although its popularity declined in the late 1980s, Rokku has transformed into a shopping district that keeps its nightlife alive.Rokugeishin represents Tokyo's entertainment past, embodying the belief that divinity can be found in all things, especially those symbolizing artistic concepts. The shrine is a short walk from Senso-ji Temple, across from the Don Quijote store, making it an accessible and intriguing stop for those exploring Asakusa.