Guide
Sugamo Sarutahiko Okami Koshin-do (commonly known as Sugamo Koshin-zuka) is a shrine located in Sugamo, Toshima City, Tokyo, with a history dating back to the year 1502 (Bunki 2). Situated just a 1-minute walk from Koshin-zuka Station on the Toden Arakawa Line, it has long been a center of devotion for local residents. The shrine grounds house sacred stone statues known as the 'Shin-en' (Divine Monkeys) and various stone monuments that preserve the culture of the Edo period, making it a precious site that maintains traditional faith amidst the modern city.
The history of this site began in 1502 with the erection of a Koshin-to (Koshin tower) approximately 2.4 meters in height. Although the site suffered a disaster in 1657 (Meireki 3) when falling timber destroyed existing structures, the tower was later rebuilt. During the early Meiji era, the deity Sarutahiko Okami was enshrined here, invited from Saruta Shrine in Choshi City, Chiba Prefecture. Despite the main hall being destroyed by fire during wartime, a temporary hall was built in 1949. Through the support of local community associations and residents, the current main hall, water pavilion, and gate have been beautifully maintained. Today, it remains a place to pray for good health and safe travels, honoring the deity 'Koshin-sama' who protects the community.
The shrine grounds are dotted with various historical remains and monuments. A standout feature is the pair of stone 'Shin-en' (Divine Monkeys) flanking the entrance gate, as well as the stone carvings of the Three Wise Monkeys—representing 'See no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil'—which are iconic to this site. Visitors can also find historical stone monuments, including those depicting famous Edo-period landscapes and a memorial to Enomoto Ryukichi. The lanterns bearing the name 'Sarutahiko Okami' and the colorful banners nearby create a distinctive and traditional atmosphere.
While the main hall's doors are usually closed, they are opened during special 'Koshin-no-hi' (Koshin Day) festivals. During these times, you can observe the interior of the hall and witness traditional Shinto rituals that are otherwise hidden. Important seasonal events include the New Year's Day festival (January 1st), the Setsubun festival, and the Koshin-no-hi annual rites. For a standard visit, we recommend a quiet stroll to admire the stone monuments and statues at your own pace. Timing your visit with the Toden Arakawa streetcar schedule is a great way to integrate this stop into a day of urban exploration.
Here, you can experience traditional Japanese religious customs firsthand. After purifying yourself at the temizuya (purification fountain), you can explore the fragments of Edo-period culture through the stone monuments and the Three Wise Monkeys. On specific festival days, you can feel the vibrant energy of local community rituals. If you are visiting during a Koshin-no-hi festival, you may also be able to receive a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) as a way to record your spiritual journey.
The shrine is located directly in front of Koshin-zuka Station on the Toden Arakawa Line, situated in a lively area filled with local shopping streets and residential neighborhoods. It is an ideal spot to visit while exploring the local neighborhood. It is also within walking distance of Nishi-Sugamo Station and Sugamo Station, making it easy to include in a larger Tokyo sightseeing itinerary.
Please observe basic shrine etiquette during your visit. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and avoiding overly revealing attire. If you wish to receive a Goshuin or make offerings, please ensure you have cash (JPY) ready. When visiting, please be mindful of any ongoing religious ceremonies and refrain from photography if a ritual is in progress. We also ask that you treat the historical stone monuments and statues with respect and avoid touching them.