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Suitengu Shrine: A Haven for Expectant Parents

A Tokyo shrine devoted to safe childbirth, family well-being, and the blessings of the next generation in the heart of Nihonbashi.

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Suitengu Shrine, located in the heart of Tokyo, is a serene oasis dedicated to prayers for safe childbirth and the well-being of children. With a history stretching back to the Edo period, the shrine attracts couples and families seeking blessings. The grounds feature the Kodakara Inu statue, a symbol of safe childbirth, and enshrine deities with the power to grant heartfelt wishes.

A brief summary to Suitengu Shrine

  • Monday 7 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-6 pm
  • Friday 7 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on Inu-no-hi (Day of the Dog) for special blessings related to safe childbirth, but be prepared for larger crowds.
  • Rub the zodiac sign corresponding to your birth year on the Kodakara Inu statue to receive personalized blessings.
  • Attend the monthly opening of Hojo Benzaiten's doors on the 5th of each month and days of the Snake for a chance to view the deity's statue.
  • Explore the Amazake Yokocho shopping street near the shrine for a taste of traditional Edo-era atmosphere and treats.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Suitengu Shrine is easily accessible via the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line. Alight at Suitengumae Station and take Exit 5, which is about a 1-minute walk to the shrine. Alternatively, you can walk from Ningyocho Station (Hibiya or Asakusa Line), which is about a 5-minute walk. A single subway fare in Tokyo typically costs between ¥170 and ¥320 depending on the distance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tokyo. From Tokyo Station, a taxi ride to Suitengu Shrine will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around ¥1,500 - ¥2,000 for the trip. Note that fares increase at night. Ride-sharing services are also available, with similar pricing.

  • Driving

    If driving, Suitengu Shrine has a parking lot with space for approximately 40 cars. However, it can get crowded, especially on weekends and during special events. Parking costs ¥450 per 30 minutes. Several other coin parking lots are available in the vicinity. Be aware of potential traffic congestion in the area, especially during peak hours.

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Discover more about Suitengu Shrine

Suitengu Shrine, nestled in Tokyo's Chuo City, is a spiritual haven renowned for its dedication to safe childbirth, the blessing of children, and the vitality of life. Originally established in 1818 as a branch of the Kurume Suitengu Shrine in Fukuoka Prefecture, it has become a cherished site for expectant parents and families. The shrine's history is intertwined with the story of Emperor Antoku, a child emperor who perished at sea, and the deities Ame-no-Minakanushi-no-Kami, Kenreimon-in Tokuko, and Taira no Tokiko. These deities are believed to bestow powerful blessings, drawing visitors who seek divine assistance for a safe and healthy pregnancy. Key features of Suitengu Shrine include the Kodakara Inu (Child-Blessing Dog) statue, inspired by the ease with which dogs give birth and raise their pups. Worshippers often stroke the zodiac sign corresponding to their birth year on the statue, hoping to receive blessings for safe childbirth, healthy children, disaster prevention, and overall well-being. The shrine also enshrines Hojo Benzaiten, one of the Seven Lucky Gods, revered as a source of blessings for the arts, academics, and financial fortune. The shrine was rebuilt in 2018 to commemorate its 200th anniversary. The modern design incorporates traditional shrine architecture with advanced seismic isolation technology, creating a harmonious blend of the old and the new. Suitengu Shrine provides a comforting and accessible space for visitors to connect with tradition and seek blessings for their families.

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