Just a Short Trip from Haneda Airport! A Mystical World of Thousand Torii Gates at “Anamori Inari Shrine”
Anamori Inari Shrine is an Inari shrine located in Haneda, Ota-ku, Tokyo. The enshrined deity is Toyouke-hime-no-mikoto. It is known as a shrine for aviation safety, travel safety, and airport protection. With excellent access, just a 3-minute walk from Anamoriinari Station on the Keikyu Airport Line, it is one of the most representative Inari shrines in Tokyo.
What Kind of Shrine Is It? (History and Origin)
Originally, it was located within the grounds of Haneda Airport. It is said to have been founded around the Bunka and Bunsei eras (1804-1831). At that time, it was first enshrined to prevent the collapse of embankments during the reclamation of Suzuki Shinden (present-day airport area).
In 1885, it gained permission for public worship and became a popular “trend god” between Tokyo and Yokohama, attracting many people. After the war, it has a history of being relocated to its current location due to the expansion of the airport by GHQ (General Headquarters of the Allied Forces).
Highlights: Thousand Torii Gates and Lucky Sand
Vermilion Thousand Torii Gates
Within the shrine grounds, beautiful vermilion thousand torii gates stand in a row. With a fantastical atmosphere like an entrance to another world, it is also popular as a photogenic spot.
Okunomiya and “Lucky Sand”
In the Okunomiya (inner shrine), there is “Lucky Sand.” It is said that bringing this sand home and scattering it will bring blessings of business prosperity and family safety. In 2020, Okunomiya and Inari Mountain were newly established, making it easier to visit.
Other Highlights
- M井do/Suikinkutsu (Water Well/Water Harp Cave): Located within the shrine grounds, you can enjoy the refreshing sound.
- Bicycle Stand: Installed next to the washing pavilion, it is a cyclist-friendly shrine.
- Legend of the Great Torii Gate: The old Great Torii Gate in the airport has a curse legend related to the GHQ’s relocation problem after the war (it is now relocated near Tenkubashi Station).
Visiting Information and Goshuin (Seal Stamp)
Visiting Hours
- Main Hall: Open for worship 24 hours
- Okunomiya: Around 6:00 AM - Around 4:30 PM
- Ascending to the Hall for Worship/Prayers: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Offering of Amulets/Goshuin: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
Goshuin
There are three types of Goshuin: “Anamori Inari,” “Okunomiya,” and “Inari Mountain.” On the 17th of each month and during “Air Space Week” (September 20-30), a limited “Aviation Inari” Goshuin is also awarded. Collaboration Goshuin notebooks with ANA and JAL are popular items unique to an aviation shrine.
Access
The nearest station is Anamoriinari Station on the Keikyu Airport Line.
- Train: 3-minute walk from Keikyu Line “Anamoriinari Station.” It is 1 or 2 stops (about 3-5 minutes) from Haneda Airport by Airport Express. Please note that the “Airport Limited Express” does not stop.
- Bus: It is also possible to take the Keikyu Bus from Haneda Airport or Kamata Station and get off at the “Rokkenbori” bus stop, then walk.
Why not take a short trip before or after using Haneda Airport? It is the perfect place to pray for safe travels.