Tokyo’s Weather Shrine: A Growing Trend of Praying for Favorable Forecasts
A unique Shinto shrine in Tokyo’s Suginami Ward is experiencing a surge in popularity, not for traditional blessings of wealth or longevity, but for something far more unpredictable: the weather. Kisho Jinja, the Weather Shrine, located within the grounds of Koenji Hikawa Shrine, is attracting a diverse clientele hoping for clear skies, relief from damaging rain, and temperatures that support their livelihoods.
From Military Strategy to Modern-Day Prayers
The shrine’s origins are rooted in practicality. Established in 1944 on the grounds of the former Imperial Japanese Army’s meteorological department, Kisho Jinja initially served as a place for forecasters to pray for accuracy in their predictions, crucial for military operations. Remarkably, it survived post-war Shinto abolition policies and was relocated to Koenji Hikawa Shrine, with the current structure rebuilt in 2003.
Today, the shrine’s appeal extends far beyond its historical ties. Businesses heavily reliant on weather conditions are increasingly turning to Kisho Jinja for divine intervention. Mizkan Co., a food manufacturer, recently requested prayers for colder winter weather, fearing warmer temperatures would negatively impact sales of their hot pot soup products. Following a cold snap in December, a company spokesperson attributed the change to “divine support.”
Unique Offerings and a Modern Priest
The approach to the shrine is adorned with distinctive offerings: sandal-shaped wooden votive plaques (ema), inspired by traditional weather fortune-telling methods, and rows of teru-teru-bozu dolls, charms believed to bring good weather. These visual elements contribute to the shrine’s unique atmosphere and growing recognition.
Leading this modern revival is Daishin Kontani, a priest at Koenji Hikawa Shrine. Kontani’s journey is unconventional; he left a career at a major trading company, qualified as a licensed weather forecaster, and then became a Shinto priest. He recognized the potential of the Weather Shrine as visitor numbers increased and actively promotes it.
Expanding Influence and International Appeal
Kisho Jinja’s influence is expanding beyond Japan. The shrine is now receiving prayer requests from companies in the United States and France, and has garnered attention from international media. Kontani’s vision is to spread the Weather Shrine’s message globally.
Beyond Business: Academic Interest and Community Engagement
The shrine’s appeal isn’t limited to the commercial sector. A high school science club from Kumamoto Prefecture, researching the Shiranui phenomenon (a rare atmospheric optical phenomenon), prayed at the shrine for favorable observation conditions. While the phenomenon didn’t appear during their initial trip, the group reported clear weather on a subsequent visit.
The shrine also hosts events aimed at community engagement, including disaster-prevention initiatives and weather quizzes for children. One young participant, 8-year-old Chihana Ishida, expressed a newfound ambition to become a weathercaster after winning a recent quiz.
The Future of Weather-Based Spirituality
Kisho Jinja represents a fascinating intersection of ancient tradition and modern concerns. As climate change introduces greater unpredictability into weather patterns, the desire for control – or at least, favorable outcomes – may drive further interest in such spiritual practices. The shrine’s success suggests a growing willingness to seek solace and guidance from unconventional sources in the face of environmental uncertainty.
FAQ
Q: What is Kisho Jinja?
A: Kisho Jinja, also known as the Weather Shrine, is a Shinto shrine in Tokyo dedicated to praying for favorable weather conditions.
Q: What kind of prayers are offered at the shrine?
A: People pray for clear skies for events like weddings, relief from damaging weather, and temperatures that benefit their businesses.
Q: Who is Daishin Kontani?
A: Daishin Kontani is a priest at Koenji Hikawa Shrine and a licensed weather forecaster who actively promotes the Weather Shrine.
Q: Where is the shrine located?
A: The shrine is located within the grounds of Koenji Hikawa Shrine in Suginami Ward, Tokyo.
Did you know? The deity enshrined at Kisho Jinja, Yagokoro-Omoikane-no-Mikoto, is considered a god of wisdom and is linked to a myth about restoring light to the world.
Pro Tip: Consider visiting the shrine to experience its unique atmosphere and learn more about its history and significance.
Interested in learning more about Japanese shrines and cultural traditions? Explore Japan-Guide.com for comprehensive information.
Share your thoughts! Have you ever prayed for good weather? Let us know in the comments below.
