A shrine of tranquility and history, beloved as the overall guardian of the Thirty-Three Villages in eastern Tokyo

A power spot in Katsushika imbued with traditions linked to Tokugawa Ieyasu and seasonal festivals
【葛西神社】

Located in Higashi-Kanamachi, Katsushika Ward, Tokyo, Kasai Shrine is a venerable shrine said to have been founded in the Heian period. Revered as the tutelary deity of the Kasai clan, which once ruled the Kasai-go of Shimōsa Province, it has long been deeply connected to the region’s history. Within the grounds remain sacred trees hundreds of years old and valuable cultural assets passed down since the Edo period, allowing visitors to feel the flow of time through the ages. The tranquil precincts make one forget the bustle of the city and purify the heart. It is cherished by local worshippers and by visitors interested in history and culture alike.

Top 3 Highlights

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1. Cultural assets that tell history and the birthplace of 「葛西囃子」

葛西神社 is known as the birthplace of 「葛西囃子」, considered the source of Edo festival music. Within the grounds stands a monument to it, preserving the chic culture of Edo to this day. Numerous valuable cultural assets are carefully preserved, including old documents connected to 豊臣秀吉 and a rare stone statue of 「鍾馗(しょうき)」 created in the Genroku era, offering plenty to see for history enthusiasts.

© KASAI JINJA

2. The healing power of 弥栄銀杏 and nature through the seasons

Across the expansive precincts stand magnificent ginkgo trees, some designated as natural monuments of the ward. In particular, 「弥栄銀杏(いやさかいちょう)」 overwhelms visitors with its stately presence and creates a stunning golden landscape in autumn. The grove’s scenery, changing with the seasons, is an urban oasis that soothes the hearts of worshippers.

© KASAI JINJA

3. Diverse rituals and the scenes of 「泣き相撲」

Many traditional events are held throughout the year; among them, 「一心泣き相撲」, which prays for babies’ health and growth, is a popular attraction bustling with families. In November, the 「酉の市」 fills the precincts with lively crowds seeking lucky 熊手 rakes for business prosperity. These community-rooted events foster warm connections and convey the appeal of Japan’s traditional festivals to visitors.

© KASAI JINJA

Facility Information

Name  葛西神社
Address 〒125-0041 東京都葛飾区東金町6-10-5
Access 10 minutes on foot from 金町駅 (JR常磐線・京成線) (see map below)
Parking available (12 spaces)
Reception hours  9:00~17:00
Closed days No holidays
Official website https://www.kasaijinja.jp/

Other recommended information

At Kasai Jinja, various traditional ceremonies and community-based events are held throughout the year.
January: At the “歳旦祭,” prayers are offered for a peaceful year, and the “三十三垂注縄飾り” adorns the torii.
May: “泣き相撲,” where babies’ cries drive away evil, is held.
June and December: The “大祓(おおはらえ),” a rite to purify sins and impurities of the half-year, is performed.
September: The “例大祭” is solemnly held, and once every three years the 宮神輿 is carried in procession.
November: The “酉の市” is held, with vibrant 熊手 lined up, letting you feel the lively downtown atmosphere.

References

BASIC INFORMATION

Name 葛西神社
(カサイ・ジンジャ)
Phone 03-3607-4560
Address 6-10-5 Higashi-Kanamachi, Katsushika-ku, Tokyo Access
Official URL https://www.kasaijinja.jp/
Official Social Media

MAP & ACCESS

Phone:03-3607-4560