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Basic Information
Location: Minayama 3, Inawashiro-machi, Yama-gun, Fukushima Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Hoshina Masayuki-ko (Hanitsu Reijin)
Founded: Enpo 3 (1675)
Divine Blessings: Kami of children and career success, academic achievement, family safety
The Grand and Splendid Shrine Buildings Once Praised as “Nikko of Tohoku”
Hanitsu jinja stands at the foot of Mount Bandai in Inawashiro-machi, Fukushima Prefecture. Today, a serene and pure atmosphere pervades the shrine grounds, but at the time of its founding, it boasted lavish and magnificent shrine buildings that were said to rival Nikko Toshogu, earning it the moniker “Nikko of Tohoku.” Unfortunately, these buildings were lost in a fire during the Boshin War in the Meiji era. However, the current pristine white torii gate stands beautifully, symbolizing its pure and unblemished history.
Mystery: Walking to the Lake Night After Night? The Legend of the “Giant Turtle Stone”
When you visit Hanitsu jinja, the first thing to catch your eye is the “Hanitsu Reijin-hi” (Hanitsu Reijin Monument), one of Japan’s largest stone monuments. It boasts an imposing scale, standing approximately 7.6 meters tall and weighing 30 tons. What’s truly remarkable, however, is its base: a mythical creature resembling a turtle, called “Hiiki,” bears the monument on its back.
A curious legend surrounds this “turtle stone.” When it was first erected, the turtle’s face pointed south, towards Lake Inawashiro. However, a rumor spread that the turtle, longing for water, would start walking towards the lake on its own every night. Troubled by this, people eventually turned the turtle’s direction north (towards Mount Bandai), and it is said to have finally stopped moving. Even today, with its massive body, it continues to steadfastly protect the achievements of its lord.
Episode: The Great Reversal from “Secret Child” to Wise Ruler, Moving Tokugawa Iemitsu to Tears
Hoshina Masayuki-ko, the enshrined kami, was born as a “secret child” of Tokugawa Hidetada, the second shogun of the Edo shogunate. Fearing the jealousy of Hidetada’s official wife, Oeyo, his existence was kept secret, and he was raised as an adopted son in the Takato Domain of Shinshu.
However, his talent and integrity could not be hidden. When his half-brother, the third shogun Iemitsu, learned of his existence, he was deeply moved by Masayuki’s humble and capable character. It is said that Iemitsu tearfully entrusted Masayuki with his dying wish: “If I die, please look after my son (Ietsuna).” From his challenging beginnings to becoming the most powerful figure in the shogunate, his life story has led Hanitsu jinja to be revered as the “Kami of Career Success.”
Behind the Scenes: The Universal Truth Encapsulated in the Name “Hanitsu”
The slightly unusual name “Hanitsu” (土津). This was a sacred posthumous name bestowed upon Masayuki-ko by his deeply respected Shinto master, Yoshikawa Koretari.
In Onmyodo (Yin-Yang Five Element Theory), “Hani” (土) represents a central element symbolizing the beginning and end of all things, while “tsu” (津) refers to the region of Aizu. The name carries the meaning “Lord of Aizu who mastered the universal truth,” illustrating how deeply Masayuki-ko valued spirituality.
Sanctuary: The “Oku no In” (Inner Shrine) that Forever Protects Aizu
About 500 meters up the cedar-lined sando (approach path) from the main hall, you will find the “Oku no In” (Inner Shrine or Mausoleum), where Masayuki-ko rests. During his lifetime, Masayuki-ko himself visited this spot and left a will requesting to be buried here.
This location is in the “Ushitora” (northeast) direction, known as the Kimon (Demon’s Gate), when viewed from Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle (Tsuruga-jo). Even after death, Masayuki-ko’s strong will to protect Aizu Castle and its people from the Kimon continues to fill this sacred place.
In autumn, maple trees, said to have been transplanted from Kyoto, dye the shrine grounds a brilliant red. In winter, the white torii gate emerges fantastically amidst the snow. Why not experience the spirit of “Gi” (righteousness) of this great ruler at Hanitsu jinja, where history, romance, and mystery intertwine?
Related Links and References
[1] Enshrined Kami | [Fukushima] Hanitsu jinja Official Website | Kami of Children and Career Success, Experience Aizu’s History
[2] 501 Not Implemented
[3] Oh, that’s it! Wow, it’s huge! ~The Turtle of Hanitsu jinja~ – A Journey of Encounters with Kifu (Turtle Pedestal)
[4] Hanitsu jinja – Kami of Children and Career Success – – Fukushima Travel
[5] History and Origins | [Fukushima] Hanitsu jinja Official Website | Kami of Children and Career Success, Experience Aizu’s History
[6] Hanitsu jinja | -Kami of Children and Career Success- | Gurutto Aizu
[7] ⑤ To Hanitsu jinja, enshrining Hoshina Masayuki-ko… Learning the Meaning of “Hanitsu” | Mahoro
[8] Hanitsu jinja | Inawashiro Tourist Association [Official Website]
[9] We want to be your spiritual refuge! Introducing the charms of Hanitsu jinja, passed down through generations! – Nanameue Travel
[10] Hanitsu jinja – Aizu’s jinja of “Gi” spirit, captivated by the four seasons. – Cultural Heritage Lab
[11] Divine Virtues/Blessings | [Fukushima] Hanitsu jinja Official Website | Kami of Children and Career Success, Experience Aizu’s History
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[13] Hanitsu jinja | The “Spirit” that Yae Learned | Yae’s Hometown, Fukushima Prefecture
[14] Online Worship (Hanitsu jinja) / Inawashiro-machi
[15] Hanitsu jinja – A jinja enshrining Hoshina Masayuki, founder of the Aizu Domain