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Tanashi Shrine: Tokyo's Dragon Sanctuary

Discover Tanashi Shrine in Tokyo: A spiritual haven where five dragon gods bestow blessings amidst stunning architecture and serene landscapes.

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Tanashi Shrine, located in Nishitokyo, is a historical Shinto shrine dating back to the Kamakura period. Renowned for enshrining five dragon gods, it offers a unique spiritual experience with beautiful architecture and serene grounds.

A brief summary to Tanashi 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 for a peaceful experience, as the shrine tends to get crowded later in the day.
  • Look for the White Water Dragon, a beautiful water ablution pavilion adorned with flowers.
  • Purchase a dragon-themed amulet for good luck; they are available for ¥500.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Shinjuku Station, take the Seibu Shinjuku Line to Tanashi Station. From the North Exit, the shrine is a 6-minute walk. The train fare is approximately ¥270. Alternatively, from Kichijoji Station, take bus no. 64 to get close to the shrine. The bus ride takes approximately 45-50 minutes.

  • Walking

    From Tanashi Station's North Exit, walk straight for about 6 minutes. Follow Route 5 and look for signs directing you to the shrine on your right. The walk is straightforward and passes by local shops and eateries.

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Discover more about Tanashi Shrine

Tanashi Shrine, with origins tracing back to the Kamakura period (13th century), is a captivating spiritual site located in Nishitokyo. Originally known as "Jodengongen," it was moved to its current location in 1670 and renamed Tanashi Shrine in 1872. This unique shrine is dedicated to deities presiding over rain, water, and wind. Unlike typical shrines dedicated to a single deity, Tanashi Shrine stands out by enshrining five dragon gods, each associated with the five elements. The Golden Dragon resides in the main hall, while the Black, White, Red, and Blue Dragons are located around the shrine's grounds. These dragons are believed to bring different blessings, from good fortune to competitive luck. The shrine's main hall, crafted by Edo-period artisan Shimamura Shumpyo, is a designated Tangible Cultural Property of Tokyo. The worship hall was built by local carpenters. The shrine also has a water fountain and other water-related spots, which are related to the dragon theme. Throughout the year, Tanashi Shrine hosts various festivals and community events, including the Dragon God Festival on September 19th.

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