Omiya Hachiman Jinja

An ancient shrine enshrined at the center of Suginami Ward, also known as 'the navel of Tokyo.' It is said to have originated when Minamoto no Yoriiyoshi and Yoshiie sought victory in prayer during their campaign in Oshu during the late Heian period. Enshrining Emperor Ojin, it was revered by warriors as a deity of military fortune. During the Edo period, it served as a rest stop for the shogun's falconry expeditions and received special treatment. Known as the 'Kosodate Yakuyoke Hachiman-sama' (Child-rearing Misfortune-Averting Hachiman), it attracts endless visitors praying for safe childbirth and the healthy growth of children. The spacious grounds contain numerous subsidiary shrines and grant many wishes.