Koyasu Shrine

Koyasu Shrine is an ancient shrine enshrined in Itabashi, Itabashi Ward, Tokyo, long venerated as the guardian deity of the old Itabashi-juku post town on the Nakasendo highway. Although its founding date is unknown, it has been a place of worship since antiquity. The principal deity is Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess who gave birth safely amid flames — making this shrine widely revered for safe childbirth and child-rearing. Affectionately known as "Koyasu-sama," travelers along the Nakasendo road and people from the surrounding Edo area have long visited to pray for safe deliveries. It is also revered for marital harmony and matchmaking, and to this day the annual autumn festival on the third weekend of September continues to draw the deep devotion of the local community.