Located in Minato City, Tokyo, Iikura Kumano Shrine is regarded as a sacred spot for fans of the popular series “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.” The shrine stands in Iikura, Azabu — said to be the birthplace of Love Hashira Mitsuri Kanroji. Within its precincts remains the symbol of the Yatagarasu, which strongly reminds visitors of the Kasugai Crows, the messengers of the Demon Slayer Corps. This overlap of mythology and fiction has turned the shrine into a place of deep emotional resonance.
The Origins and History of Iikura Kumano Shrine
Iikura Kumano Shrine stands on a hill in Azabudai. It enshrines the Kumano Gongen deity, known for warding off misfortune, bringing good fortune, and binding relationships.
During the Edo period, the shrine was surrounded by samurai residences and temples, and it served as a spiritual anchor for both warriors and townspeople. Even after modernization and urban redevelopment, it continues to fulfill its role as the guardian of the community.
| Period | Role of the Shrine |
|---|---|
| Edo Period | A protective deity for samurai families and townspeople |
| Meiji – Taisho | The guardian deity of Azabu-ku Iikura |
| Showa | Survived war and urbanization |
| Present | Now serves as a sacred pilgrimage site for fans |
Connection to Mitsuri Kanroji’s Birthplace
In the official setting of “Demon Slayer,” Mitsuri Kanroji is said to be born in “Azabu-ku Iikura.” Since Iikura Kumano Shrine sits in that very area, it is highly likely to have been the local guardian shrine of her birthplace.
Mitsuri’s personality — cherishing bonds and showing profound affection toward others — resonates deeply with the shrine’s divine blessing of relationship binding.
| Mitsuri Kanroji’s Traits | Blessings of Iikura Kumano Shrine |
|---|---|
| Her role as the Love Hashira | Love and relationship binding |
| Her ability to brighten those around her | Protection against misfortune |
| Her support for comrades | Harmony in families and stronger bonds |
Such parallels between her character and the shrine’s blessings strengthen its role as a sacred site for fans.
Yatagarasu and Kasugai Crow Symbolism
The Yatagarasu is known in Japanese mythology as the divine three-legged crow that guided Emperor Jimmu on his conquest. It symbolizes divine guidance, correct paths, and ultimate victory.
In “Demon Slayer,” the Kasugai Crows deliver critical information to Corps members, guiding them toward success and survival. Both are messengers and guides, creating a symbolic bridge between mythology and fiction.
| Yatagarasu | Kasugai Crow |
|---|---|
| Guided Emperor Jimmu in myth | Delivers orders to Demon Slayers |
| Three-legged, symbol of the sun | Symbolic companion of each Slayer |
| A sign of success and divine victory | Guide that can determine life or death |
This symbolic overlap further reinforces Iikura Kumano Shrine as a sacred destination for fans.
Iikura Kumano Shrine as a Pilgrimage Site
Today, anime and manga fans often travel to visit real-world places tied to their favorite works. This trend, known as “sacred site pilgrimage,” has made Iikura Kumano Shrine a sought-after destination.
Visitors do more than sightseeing — they pray while connecting Mitsuri’s story with the shrine’s blessings, creating a personal and spiritual experience.
Kumano Faith and the Power of Rebirth and Bonds
Kumano faith is also known as the “faith of rebirth,” symbolizing new beginnings and overcoming hardship. Iikura Kumano Shrine carries on this tradition, offering blessings of protection, fortune, and renewal.
Its most celebrated power is relationship binding. The shrine’s divine role aligns seamlessly with Mitsuri’s identity as the Love Hashira, making the connection all the more meaningful for fans.
The Shrine’s Role in Community Life
Beyond its spiritual role, Iikura Kumano Shrine serves as the cultural center of its neighborhood. Seasonal festivals and traditional rituals are held annually, drawing locals and visitors alike.
| Event | Content | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| New Year Visit | First prayers of the year | Wishing for peace and safety |
| Summer Festival | Floats and stalls | Community bonding and prosperity |
| Shichi-Go-San | Children’s rites of passage | Strengthening family unity |
This ongoing role in local culture adds to the shrine’s appeal as a pilgrimage site.
Access and Worship
Iikura Kumano Shrine is conveniently located: a 7-minute walk from Kamiyacho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or a 10-minute walk from Akabanebashi Station on the Toei Oedo Line.
The worship process follows the typical Shinto manner:
- Bow once before passing through the torii gate
- Purify hands at the temizuya (water basin)
- Offer two bows, two claps, and one bow before the main shrine
- Make your prayer
Many fans include Mitsuri in their prayers, blending personal wishes with the spirit of the series.
Conclusion
Iikura Kumano Shrine, standing in Mitsuri Kanroji’s birthplace of Azabu-ku Iikura, is believed to be the guardian shrine of the area. Its Yatagarasu symbol strongly recalls the Kasugai Crows, making it a site of deep meaning for Demon Slayer fans.
With its long history, Kumano faith traditions, blessings of relationship binding, and strong ties to local culture, the shrine resonates powerfully with the themes of the series.
For fans, it is more than a place of worship — it is a sacred site that bridges fiction and reality, a place of divine guidance and heartfelt pilgrimage.
