By ando 
Basic Information
Location: 1-2-17 Hattorimoto-machi, Toyonaka City, Osaka Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto (god of medicine and healing), Sugawara no Michizane (god of scholarship and feet)
Access: A short walk from Hattori Tenjin Station on the Hankyu Takarazuka Line
The Legend of the “God of Feet” Who Saved Sugawara no Michizane
Hattori Tenjingu became nationally known as the “God of Feet” thanks to a dramatic episode involving Sugawara no Michizane, a nobleman from the Heian period.
In Enki 1 (901 AD), during his exile to Dazaifu, Michizane-ko’s chronic beriberi worsened at this very spot. He was struck by such intense pain that he couldn’t walk another step. Desperate, Michizane-ko offered prayers at a small shrine here dedicated to Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto. Miraculously, his foot pain vanished instantly, and he was able to reach Dazaifu safely.
This legend of a “miraculous recovery” spread, and for over 1,000 years since, the shrine has garnered fervent devotion from people praying for healing of foot ailments and for good leg health.
The Mystery of the “Sacred Tree” Piercing the Station Platform
When you visit Hattori Tenjingu, the first thing that will astound you is the sight at the nearest station, Hattori Tenjin Station. A gigantic camphor tree soars right through the roof of the inbound platform!
This tree was originally a sacred tree (goshinboku) within the shrine grounds. Rumor has it that when the railway was being constructed in the Taisho era, workers attempted to cut down this tree, but a series of ominous incidents befell the construction crew. Ultimately, the station was built to avoid the tree, and even today, it stands as a “sacred tree enshrined on the station platform,” watching over worshipers and railway enthusiasts alike.
Is the “God of Feet” Also the “God of Money”?
Within the shrine grounds, you’ll also find Toyonaka Ebisu Jinja. Every January, during the “Toka Ebisu” festival, it bustles with approximately 350,000 visitors. Interestingly, this site is also said to be the “birthplace of Fukumusume,” the name now familiar for the lucky shrine maidens at Ebisu shrines nationwide.
As a fun side note, because it is the god of “ashi” (feet), it is also believed to bring good fortune with “o-ashi” (a polite term for money), meaning it can improve your financial luck and business prosperity. It is a unique power spot that allows you to pray not only for the health of your feet but also for the health of your wallet!
Modern Pilgrimage: Athletes and “Uma Musume” Fans
Today, thanks to its benefits, Hattori Tenjingu has become a “sacred place for sports,” visited by many athletes, including professional soccer players and marathon runners, seeking victory prayers.
Furthermore, in recent years, it has gained quiet attention as a sacred spot (or prayer site) among fans of the popular content “Uma Musume Pretty Derby.” Many fans visit to acquire an “Ashimamori” amulet, praying that the characters (Uma Musume) in the game can continue running without injury, and wishing for the strong legs of their favorite Uma Musume.
The Unique Amulet “Ashimamori”
Particularly popular at Hattori Tenjingu is the “Ashimamori” amulet, designed to be threaded through a shoelace and attached. Small and lightweight, it can be affixed directly to running shoes or cleats, making it a practical amulet cherished by many athletes.
Whether you suffer from foot problems, are looking to take a new step forward, or simply wish for your favorite character to run swiftly, why not visit once and experience its mysterious power for yourself?