The Aviation Shrine (航空神社) is located on the rooftop of the 9-story Aviation Hall, headquarters of the Japan Aeronautic Association in Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo.
The shrine founded in 1931 in order to pay respects to the spirits of the many aviation martyrs and to praise those with outstanding contributions to aviation. A total of 6,367 were enshrined as deities. The Haneda Aviation Shrine at 1F of Terminal 1 of Haneda Airport is a branch of this shrine and after its opening in 1963, enshrines these dieties.
In 1982 on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of its establishment, Aviation Shrine’s rituals were changed from one for commemorating the deities to one for praying for aviation peace, and offers prayers for the safety of aviation workers and travelers. In addition, people aiming to work in the aviation industry also visit the shrine to pray for safety in the sky and for passing exams.
Each year, a New Year’s Festival takes place on January 7th, followed by an annual festival on Sky Day, September 20th. The Sky Day festival attracts many people from the aviation industry.
photos: Junko Nagata ©Japanbyweb.com
The current Aviation Hall was completed in 1978. The building houses on the 6th floor the “Aviation Library” with approximately 50,000 books and magazines, making it a favorite destination for aviation enthusiasts.
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