Higashi tenno Okazaki Shrine

aka Usagi Jinja /the bunny temple

Founded 794 by Emperor Kanmu as a protective shrine on the east side of the city

Dedicated to the divine couple Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto who had eight children

In 1178 it became associated with fertility

Why the link with rabbits? Fertility, but also the zodiac sign rabbit is associated with the east and the shrine was on the eastern limits of the city.

Why it made my must do list: BUNNIES! No wolpertingers, alas, but plenty of bunnies. Also wanted a good luck charm for safe childbirth for our daughter, and this is THE place for them.

Also included here, our walk to the shrine, and the traditional bedroom in our apartment, the gift our host left for us, and a macha kitkat.Read more