Omamori made from wood of 100-Year Torii Gate

Josai-Shōfuku Mamori

A rare Meiji Shrine amulet made from reclaimed wood of the original South Approach torii gate at Harajuku, Japan. Crafted to remove misfortune and invite good fortune, this piece carries a full century of shrine history in physical form. Has a somewhat citrus beautiful smell.

Acquired: Meiji Shrine, Tokyo, Japan - March 2025

Year Consecrated or Blessed: 2025

Religion: Shinto

Material: Taiwan cypress (檜, hinoki)

Reclaimed from the former South Approach Torii (Harajuku First Torii)

Year of Significance:

Torii originally erected: 1920

Torii replaced and material consecrated: 2020 (Meiji Shrine Centennial)

Ways to Use:

• Carried daily for general protection and fortune

• Hung near an entryway, workspace, or personal altar

• Used as a transitional talisman during periods of change or uncertainty

Description:

This Josai-Shōfuku Mamori is produced from the wood of the original South Approach torii gate that marked the boundary between the secular city and Meiji Shrine’s sacred grounds for over 100 years. Since its establishment in 1920, this torii welcomed generations of worshippers entering the shrine precinct.

In 2020, as part of Meiji Shrine’s centennial commemorations, the torii was respectfully rebuilt. The original Taiwan cypress timbers, having fulfilled a century of ritual service, were preserved and transformed into these amulets. Each piece is engraved with 除災招福 “remove calamity, invite good fortune” and sealed by the shrine.

The hexagonal form and braided cord reflect formal shrine craftsmanship. The material itself is the core significance: wood that once stood as a spiritual threshold, now carried as a personal protective object.

Traditionally, such amulets are returned to Meiji Shrine approximately one year after use as an act of gratitude and renewal.

Condition:

Unused shrine-issued amulet. Natural grain, tone, and markings vary by piece.