Tokyo Separated Worship of “Toyokawa Inari” – Foxes as messangers of deities
“Toyokawa Inari” is located in Aichi Prefecture (Tokai area, close to Nagoya), but this is disenshrined one in Tokyo. Confusingly, this is originally a Buddhism temple, but also respects (not worships) foxes as messanger of deities in Japanese Shinto style, with Torii Gate (usually Buddhism temples do not have Torii Gate). It seems they are combined in the long histrical context.
The temple was worshiped by Ooka Tadasuke, renowned as a judicial officer in Edo period who lieved in neighbor. It was moved from his stronghold to current location in 1887, or in the beginning of Meiji period. Tokyo is such a misterious city that has this kind of legacy in the midst of skyscrapers.
Main Gate.Thousands of fox stature. All of them look offered by supporters.This is precinct of a temple, but different deities are worshipped guided by foxes.Small souvenir & cafe shops. Foxes are said to love deepfried bean curd (Tofu).Main hall to pray. Foxes stand both side, almost as gurdian lions in Shrine. It is a little strange to remember this is a temple.Offered blocks probably over 100 years old. Says “Yotsuya Supporters”. It’s neighbors.From a person in Nihombashi. about 5km East from here.“Azabu Supporters” also around 5km South, next to Roppongi. Probablly the blocks are burnt in Tokyo Air Raid in 1945.This person lived in Ginza.It says Nihombashi Ward, in old Chinese ideogram.From Kiba, where used to be a inventory of woods to rebuild Edo often destroyed by large scaled fire. Should be 7 – 8 km South East.Ads of Toyokawa Inari in Aichi Prefecture.
