Dear friends,

We are living in a world that often feels shallow and disconnected. We are craving and looking for something that reminds us of who we are. We are looking for love, from someone else. But there is a profound human need for Musubi—the sacred act of weaving connections.

In Japan, this concept is deeply rooted in spirituality and daily life, particularly at many shrines dedicated to fostering and blessing relationships. Let’s explore the most profound kinds of relationship: the bonds of love, the threads of friendship, and the foundation of partnership. These relationships is so sacred and let me guide you to some of Tokyo’s most revered shrines where you can pray for your own connections.

But first of all, let’s talk about these kinds of Musubi.

There are 3 sacred Relationships that we might know:

1. Love (Enmusubi):
Love is so much more than just feelings. Love is a profound spiritual journey. In Japan, the term enmusubi refers to the blessing of a good match, whether it’s finding your soulmate or strengthening the bond you already have. This is a relationship built on mutual respect, deep understanding, and shared growth. It’s a connection that challenges you to be your best self and offers a safe harbor in times of difficulty. You can always be a best friend to your lover. Love is when you let them be, letting go of control or expectation that they would change to fit your imaginations. Love is just, love.

I adore the love between Susanoo no Mikoto with his wife Kushinadahime. It’s a divine love, when she has made him become a true hero, and he has rescued her from her cruel fate and made her become his belove wife so that he could forever protect her.

八雲立つ
出雲八重垣
妻籠みに
八重垣作る
その八重垣を

Izumo is a land protected by clouds aplenty
And like this land of Izumo
I shall build a fence to protect the palace
Where my wife will live
Like the clouds in this land of Izumo


2. Friendship (Yujou):
True friendship is a form of spiritual kinship. Friendship is relationship of choice, built on shared experiences, unwavering support, empathy and laughter. Sacred friendship is the best thing you can manifest into your life and it’s also a mirror that reflects your true nature, helping you to see your strengths and weaknesses without judgment. It’s a bond that celebrates your successes and cushions your falls, proving that you are never truly alone. In the end, we all need someone to understand what we believe. What are friends for, in your opinion?

3. Partnership (Aibougumi or Nakama):
The concept of partnership extends beyond romantic love. It can be a business collaboration, an alliance, or the bond of a married couple. A sacred partnership is founded on trust, shared visions, and a commitment to working towards a common goal. It’s a dynamic relationship where two individuals come together to create something greater than the sum of their parts, just like the relationship between Shinsengumi’s members. They support each other’s dreams and building a life together. Partnership is profound and sacred.

If you are in Tokyo, or will soon be in Tokyo, these are my suggestions for Musubi:


1. Tokyo Daijingu:

This shrine is often called the “Grand shrine of love”. It’s one of the most famous for enmusubi. It is dedicated to the gods of marriage and is a popular destination for those seeking a good match or praying for their current relationships. It is said to have the strongest power for love in Tokyo.


2. Hikawa Shrines:

There’s no better place to pray for love than the shrine of Susanoo no Mikoto and his belove wife Kushinadahime. As you might know, the very 1st shrine of Japan – Suga Jinja in Izumo, is their wedding palace.
Shibuya Hikawa Shrine in Shibuya has a ceremony on the 15th day of the month, when you can go there and pray for love, or just ask the God to bless your relationship with your loved one.


3. Hie Shrine:

While Hie Shrine is known for its protection and prosperity, it is also a popular spot for couples due to its symbolism of fertility and safe childbirth. The shrine’s meoto monkeys are a popular symbol of a long and happy marriage.

The concept of musubi reminds us that relationships—whether they are with a partner, a friend—are a sacred art form. They are the threads that weave the rich tapestry of our lives. By honoring these connections and even seeking a little spiritual guidance at a jinja, we can cultivate a life filled with purpose, joy, and meaningful bonds. The sacred knot is in our hands to tie, nurture, and cherish.