Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin:Unique Buddhist Temple in Akasaka

Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin is a notable Buddhist temple located in Akasaka, Tokyo. Despite the association with “Inari,” which is often linked to Shinto shrines, Toyokawa Inari is a Buddhist temple of the Soto Zen sect, serving as the Tokyo branch of the renowned Toyokawa Inari in Aichi Prefecture. Visitors come here to seek blessings for prosperity, business success, and personal protection, making it a popular spot for both spiritual practice and tourism.

A long stone perimeter wall of Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin in Motoakasaka, topped with rows of bright red paper lanterns and carved stone relief panels

The wooden main gate of Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin, its pillar hung with a gold sign bearing the temple name, opening onto a manicured garden

Historical Background

The original Toyokawa Inari was established in 1441 by the monk Tokai Gieki in Aichi Prefecture. The temple enshrines Toyokawa Dakini Shinten, a deity with origins in India, later adopted into the Buddhist tradition in Japan. While Toyokawa Inari bears the name “Inari,” traditionally associated with the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, it remains firmly a Buddhist institution. The Tokyo Betsuin (branch temple) was established to bring the blessings of Toyokawa Inari closer to those in the capital, expanding the spiritual reach of the temple.

The main worship hall of Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin flanked by two bronze fox statues in red bibs, with lanterns and worshippers before it

Understanding the Misconception

Although “Inari” typically refers to Shinto deities associated with foxes and rice, Toyokawa Inari is different. It is not a Shinto shrine but a Buddhist temple. The connection to “Inari” comes from the temple’s main deity, Toyokawa Dakini Shinten, often depicted riding a white fox, which is why fox statues are present in the temple grounds. These foxes are Buddhist representations, not Shinto symbols.

Long rows of small stone fox statues wearing red bibs at the Reikozuka mound of Toyokawa Inari, backed by red-and-white votive banners

Key Areas to Visit

1. Yuzuinari: For Financial Prosperity

One of the most popular areas within the temple is the Yuzuinari, where worshippers pray for wealth and financial success. The deity enshrined here, Namu Nyoihousho Sonten, is said to grant prosperity to those who offer sincere prayers. Visitors can take a small yellow pouch called “Yuzukin” (融通金), which is believed to bring good fortune and financial stability. It’s customary to return the pouch to the temple after one’s prayers have been fulfilled.

2. Kanou Inari: A Place to Cut Ties with Misfortune

Kanou Inari is a special place for those seeking to sever bad relationships or cut ties with negative influences. Although it carries the name “Inari,” this is a Buddhist practice within the temple grounds. Visitors come here to pray for guidance in removing obstacles and bad fortune from their lives, making it a popular spot for those looking for a fresh start.

A garden at Toyokawa Inari with a green bronze Kannon statue and stone lanterns, a modern office building rising behind the trees

3. Benzaiten: For Artists and Musicians

The Benzaiten shrine at Toyokawa Inari is dedicated to the goddess of music, wisdom, and the arts. Many artists, musicians, and performers visit this shrine to pray for inspiration and success in their creative endeavors. As one of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods, Benzaiten is particularly revered for granting success in the arts.

4. A Unique Experience with Fox Statues

One of the distinguishing features of Toyokawa Inari is the abundance of fox statues, often associated with Shinto Inari shrines. However, these foxes are symbols of Toyokawa Dakini Shinten, a Buddhist deity. The foxes are seen as protectors and messengers of the deity, symbolizing prosperity and protection.

A close view of two granite fox guardian statues at Toyokawa Inari facing each other with bared teeth

A pair of seated stone foxes in red bibs at Toyokawa Inari, one resting a paw on a ball, with a small white sake cup offered between them

A large yellow cartoon fox mascot statue at Toyokawa Inari, standing before tiered shelves of small stone fox figures in red bibs

A green bronze fox statue on a stone pedestal inscribed in red at Toyokawa Inari, beside a black metal lantern

Temple Etiquette and Festivals

Toyokawa Inari is a peaceful retreat, offering visitors an opportunity to reflect and pray. It is also home to various festivals, including events where worshippers gather to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and protection.

One of the most notable events is the Setsubun Bean-Throwing Ceremony in February, where famous figures and celebrities participate in throwing beans to drive away evil spirits and bring good fortune. This event attracts many visitors and highlights the temple’s role as a place of celebration and spiritual reflection.

Conclusion

Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin is a fascinating blend of Buddhist traditions and cultural elements commonly associated with Shinto. Its serene atmosphere, rich history, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for those seeking blessings for prosperity, success, and protection. Whether you’re interested in the temple’s historical background, its connection to the arts, or its unique spiritual practices, Toyokawa Inari offers an enriching experience for all visitors.

The wooden Daikokudo hall of Toyokawa Inari with a gold-lettered sign, a stone lantern to the side and visitors nearby

A bronze twin-dragon water fountain at the purification basin of Toyokawa Inari, water pouring from the dragons' mouths over bamboo and wooden ladles

A small auxiliary shrine at Toyokawa Inari with a purple curtain bearing white crests, flanked by green banners and strings of folded paper cranes

The Tokushichiro Inari auxiliary shrine at Toyokawa Inari, its purple curtain and gold plaque framed by green banners, with a small fox figure and flowers within

The Ugajin-o auxiliary shrine at Toyokawa Inari, hung with a purple curtain, green offering banners and colorful thousand-crane garlands