Given that the Kamata Hachiman Shrine is devoted to Inari, the Japanese fox god, it is perhaps appropriate that its attendants are rather fluffier than usual. Most Japanese shrines have Miko, or Shrine Maidens, who care for the complex, but at Kamata Hachiman, the maidens are instead two matched white poodles. Clad in the traditional costume of the Miko, the haori (white kimono jacket), the dogs enthusiastically welcome visitors to the shrine.
During cherry blossom season, spot the blossoms peeking over the roofs of the surrounding buildings. Take the time to great the shrine’s well-behaved maidens, who appreciate visitors who give them a scratch or a cuddle. Try not to get too distracted by the welcoming committee to enter the shrine itself, which is laid out much like many other shrines in the Tokyo area.
Wander along the serene paths and sit in contemplation amid the well-ordered landscaping. The park comes alive with sights and smells of cherry blossoms in March, but because the shrine is off most tourists’ itineraries, you’ll generally find quiet and stillness. Appreciate the serenity as the sun glows through the leaves and flowers. Breathe deeply and appreciate this peace, so well guarded by the two furry friends sitting at the entrance.
Kamata Hachiman Shrine is located in central Ota, not far from the Nomi River and extremely close to several train stations. Walk to the shrine in a few minutes from the Keikyu Kamata station near the river, which offers connections throughout the city and is only a 10-minute ride from Haneda International Airport. Reach the shrine from Chofu Airport within 90 minutes. Parking is generally extremely limited, but there are metered spots in a few garages in the vicinity. During peak tourist season, however, these fill rapidly. The shrine itself is always open for visitors, but the Shrine Maidens are here to greet visitors only during the day.
