Kagurazaka "Zenkokuji Temple"

#Valentine's Day Good Place 2025 Speaking of "Kagurazaka", it is said that the name originated from the Kagura slope dedicated to the shrine during the Edo period. This place developed into a prosperous flower street from the Meiji era to the Taisho era, and was also a favorite street of many literati. Due to the writings of literati, the influx of merchants, and the prosperity of restaurants, this place is also known as "Yamate Ginza". Before the establishment of the tram transportation network at that time, this place was very prosperous and lively. In the past, Kagurazaka was home to the Tokyo Japan-France Institute, and many French-related institutions were located here, so you can see French people and other foreigners here. Kagurazaka is also known as the "Little Paris of Tokyo". In addition to many traditional restaurants, there are also many French restaurants here. One of the reasons why Kagurazaka attracts me is that there are many delicious foods. What I want to share with you today is the "Zenkokuji Temple" located in the center of the main street Kagura-dori. The exterior is bright red. The temple enshrines "Bishamonten", the god who can make people's wishes come true. Every summer, a summer festival centered on the nightshade flower market is held here. During the event, there will be volunteer guides wearing yukatas and various stalls, and the highlight of the festival is the "Awa Dance". The entire Kagurazaka street is closed for the event, making it an event not to be missed when traveling to Tokyo in the summer. "Zenkokuji" was built in 1595 and is a Buddhist temple belonging to the Nichiren sect. Bishamonten, who is worshipped as the Gohonzon, is the god of wealth worshipped in ancient India. Therefore, it can bless wealth and bring good luck and ward off disasters. It is worshipped by many people and is also known as a place of good fortune. After Buddhism was introduced to Japan, Bishamonten, Benzaiten, Daikokuten, Jurokuju, Hotei and Ebisu were collectively called the "Seven Lucky Gods". Together, they are in charge of the blessings of the world and are the most well-known gods of good fortune in Japan. Another legend is that "Vaiśravaṇa" first descended to the world on the day of the tiger month of the tiger year, and was also known as "Yin Bisha", which is closely related to the tiger. Because of this legend, a pair of stone tigers stand in front of the main hall of Shanguo Temple as guardians. The statue of Vaisravana in the hall is only open to the public on the day of the tiger in January, May and September every year. This is considered a very special place!