Chingodo Hall

Chingodo Hall pays contribute to Tanuki!?

Chingodo Hall, little shirine on Sensoji in Asakusa, pays contribute to Taniki. Taniki is racoon dogs figure in Japanese myth as shapeshifters and pranksters, and was described and known as Pompoko Japanese animation directed by Isao Takahata and Studio Ghibli.

Why Chingodo Hall pays contribute to Tanuki? In Boshin-war fought from 1868 to 1869, Tanuki escaped from the war to Demboin, and promised the chief priest they would defend Demboin from fire if he protect them. In truth, Demboin hasn't been destroyed by fire since 1868 in spite of great Kanto earthquake and wars.

Nowadays, many Japanese and tourist visit Chingodo Hall to pray for prevention of fire. If you'll visit Chingodo Hall, you may pray for prevention of fire and enjoy statues of Tanuki.