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Namiyoke Shrine: Guardian of Tsukiji

A historic Shinto shrine in Tsukiji, offering blessings for protection from misfortune and business prosperity near the vibrant fish market.

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Namiyoke Shrine, meaning 'protection from the waves,' is a Shinto shrine in Tsukiji, Tokyo, built in 1659 after the Great Fire of Meireki. Originally on the waterfront, it became the guardian shrine of the Tsukiji Fish Market after the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake. It's known for warding off misfortune and protecting businesses.

A brief summary to Namiyoke Shrine

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to witness locals praying for a safe and successful workday.
  • Look for the unique tsuka stone sculptures representing various seafood ingredients.
  • Check the shrine's website for information on the Tsukiji Shishi Matsuri festival in June.
  • Purchase a charm or paper cut from the temple store as a unique gift.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The closest stations are Tsukiji Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line and Tsukijishijo Station on the Toei Oedo Line. From Tsukiji Station (Exit 1), it's a 7-10 minute walk. From Tsukijishijo Station (Exit A1), it's about a 5-minute walk. Subway fares typically range from ¥150-¥200 depending on the distance traveled. An IC card (Suica or Pasmo) is recommended for easy payment.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Tokyo. Simply tell the driver "Namiyoke Shrine in Tsukiji" (築地波除神社). From Tokyo Station, the taxi fare will be approximately ¥1290. A short taxi ride within Tsukiji from Tsukiji station should cost approximately ¥730-¥900, but this can vary depending on traffic. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak market hours.

  • Walking

    Namiyoke Shrine is located near the Tsukiji Outer Market. If you are already in the Tsukiji area, it is easily accessible on foot. From the outer market entrance, walk along Namiyoke Dori street; the shrine will be at the end of the street. Walking from Ginza takes approximately 25-35 minutes.

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Discover more about Namiyoke Shrine

Nestled in the heart of Tsukiji, Tokyo, Namiyoke Shrine (波除稲荷神社, Namiyoke Inari-jinja) offers a serene escape from the surrounding bustle. Founded in 1659, its name, meaning "protection from waves," reflects its origins on the Edo-era waterfront following the Great Fire of Meireki. Legend says a shining deity was found floating at sea, and enshrining it calmed the waters, enabling land reclamation. After the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, when the Tsukiji Fish Market was established nearby, Namiyoke Shrine became the market's unofficial guardian. Today, the shrine is visited by locals and tourists alike, seeking blessings for safe journeys, business prosperity, and protection from disasters. The shrine grounds feature unique tsuka, stone sculptures donated by trade groups to honor the area's vital resources, including seafood like sushi, shrimp and eggs. Two prominent lion heads, the Tenjo Ojishi (male) and Benzaiten Ohaguro Ojishi (female), are enshrined here, believed to tame the wind and clouds. Every June, the Tsukiji Shishi Matsuri festival sees these lion heads paraded through the streets.

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