Sumiyoshi Shrine (Chuo-ku, Tokyo)

Sumiyoshi Shrine is familiar to many in Japan as the place to pray for safety on the seas or in the air.
At the top of the Torii Gate is a rare ceramic framed inscription of the shrine's name. Another highlight is the carved washbasin, where worshippers purify themselves before entering the shrine. Depicting a boat on the waves, it is a national cultural treasure.
Within the grounds, there are some smaller shrines. Among these is Ryu Shrine, where many people come to pay their respects to the god of business, the arts, and learning.
Every year on August 6th, a shrine festival is held. Once every 3 years, it becomes a huge event and the whole Tsukishima area is teeming with visitors.
In spring, when the Somei Yoshino cherry blossom are in full bloom, Sumiyoshi Shrine holds a Sakura Festival. At this time, the shrine offers visitors a sweet, thick sake-based drink called Amazake and Oshiruko, a sweet red bean soup.