To the west of the main Akihabara area lies the famous Kanda Myoujin Shrine; formerly located in Otemachi near Tokyo Station, but removed to the Kanda area by Ieyasu Tokugawa (1543 – 1616) after he moved to the then city of Edo during the era named after the city. It is said that he visited the shrine to seek the protection of the gods prior to his decisive victory at the battle of Sekigahara.

The shrine itself was situated to the north-east of Ieyasu's residence, in part to protect him, and the remainder of the city from evil spirits that supposedly originated in the north-east; the Devil's Gate ('Kimon' in Japanese).

Today, the shrine's main festival – Kanda Matsuri – is held in mid-May, and is said to be one of the three greatest festivals in Tokyo. Of late, perhaps because of its location near Akihabara, Kanda Myoujin has become the shrine at which those connected to the world of Information Technology turn for spiritual guidance; as shown in the photo with its IT related charms.

Roughly 10 mins from Akihabara Station on foot, whilst walking along Hongo Street, it should be possible to see the 'torii' gate of the shrine on the right – an un-drawn border that seems to banish the sights and sounds of the nearby Akiba.

Move South from the shrine and you'll discover some traditional Japanese restaurants – but that's for another one .

by Kodama  from Japan Hopper