The bright red torii gate of Shimotani Shrine stood facing Asakusa Street

Big Torii of Sitaya Jinja — Torii of Shitaya Jinja Shrine

A large red torii gate stood between buildings. It is said to be the torii of the Shimotani Shrine in Ueno. The shrine is rather unassuming, but apparently it is the oldest Inari shrine in Tokyo. It is said to have once boasted a vast site, but the current precincts have shrunk to the point where it can even be described as “lovely”.

The narrow main approach to the shrine, surrounded by modern architecture, is now a public road, paved with asphalt. As you walk deeper into the temple, the main shrine building quietly emerges. However, only this torii gate stands proudly facing Asakusa-dori, casually asserting itself to passersby. Still, it was somewhat reserved. With arms outstretched, it looks as if it is taking care not to collide with a building. It was as if they were trying to find their own position in the city, whether to blend in or to compete with it.

After gazing at the torii gate for a while, I was suddenly struck by a strange sensation. Time seemed to quietly reverse, and images of the once vast precincts of the shrine seemed to float vaguely in my mind. The buzz of people, the sound of festival drums, the twinkling of lanterns. But the sensation soon vanished like fog. When I returned to reality, all I could see was the torii gate, the buildings, and the indifferent cars passing by on Asakusa-dori.

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