By ando 
Asahiokayama Jinja, located in Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, is known as a place enveloped in immense fervor that signals the end of winter, even amidst tranquil snowy landscapes. This time, we will delve into the charm and mysterious legends of this jinja, which captivates everyone from history buffs to festival enthusiasts.
Basic Information
Location: 123 Kaminiwatoda, Osawa, Yokote City, Akita Prefecture
Main Kami: Ame-no-Oshihomimi-no-mikoto, Uka-no-Mitama-no-Okami, and a total of seven kami
Founded: Daido 2 (807 AD)
Main Festival: Asahiokayama Jinja Bonden Dedication Festival (February 17)
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1. From Sakanoue no Tamuramaro to Minamoto no Yoshitsune! The Kami of Victory Beloved by Warriors
The history of Asahiokayama Jinja is exceptionally ancient. It is said to have originated in the early Heian period when Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, the Seii Taishogun (Commander-in-Chief of the Expeditionary Force against the Barbarians), invited the kami during his eastern expedition.
Later, episodes remain recounting how Minamoto no Yoshiie (Hachiman Taro), known for the Later Three-Year War, Fujiwara no Hidehira of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, and even Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Musashibo Benkei, visited the jinja to pray for victory in battle and the fulfillment of their wishes. Indeed, for those seeking success in contests or good fortune, it can be said to be an unparalleled power spot.
2. The “Stillness” of Kamakura, the “Movement” of Bonden
When it comes to winter in Yokote, “Kamakura” (snow domes) are famous, but for locals, the grand finale is the Asahiokayama Jinja “Bonden Dedication Festival”.
While Kamakura is a quiet event dedicated to the water kami, Bonden is pure “movement”. Men carrying magnificent “Bonden” exceeding 5 meters in height and 30 kilograms in weight head towards the jinja with shouts of “Joyasa! Joyasa!”
3. Clash at the Nio-mon Gate! The Mystery of ‘Onyo-san’
The climax and perhaps the greatest mystery of this festival is the struggle at the Nio-mon Gate (commonly known as ‘Onyo-san’) located along the approach to the jinja.
The group that passes through the gate first fiercely jostles to block the entry of subsequent groups. Why obstruct the dedication? It is believed that the more fiercely they clash and jostle, the more pleased the kami will be, granting good fortune for the year. With snow dust and the passion of the men, the jinja grounds are enveloped in such intensity that visibility turns white.
4. 1000-Year-Old Trees! The Legend of the ‘Seven Cedars’
Along the approach to the jinja, there once stood gigantic cedar trees known as the “Seven Cedars of Asahiokayama Jinja”. Their age is estimated to be about 1000 years, and a legend also remains that Sakanoue no Tamuramaro planted them.
Currently, only three trees remain due to lightning strikes and aging, but their overwhelming presence is still felt. They are also designated as a natural monument of Yokote City, allowing visitors to feel the vibrant life force of these sacred trees that have watched over a long history.
5. Unkei’s Work!? The Mystery of the Hidden Jinja Treasures
Inside the main hall of the jinja, two divine statues believed to have been created in the Muromachi period are enshrined. According to one theory, there is a legend that these were sculpted by the genius Buddhist sculptor “Unkei,” and they are also designated as Important Cultural Properties of Akita Prefecture.
As many historical documents were lost in a fire, the truth remains shrouded in the mists of history. However, an indescribable sacred aura emanates from these statues, carefully preserved in a harsh snowy region.
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Asahiokayama Jinja is not just an old shrine. It is a place brimming with energy, where the passion of people enduring a harsh winter and eagerly awaiting spring explodes in the form of “Bonden”.
Beyond the Bonden Dedication Festival in February, we also recommend walking along the approach in the fresh green season, admiring the 1000-year-old cedars. We encourage you to trace the footsteps of the warriors who navigated the turbulent waves of history, right here at the site!
Related Links / References
[1] Asahiokayama Jinja
[2] Yokote no Bonden Part 2 – “colocal” Learning, Living, and Traveling Locally