Basic Information
Location: 1 Shinmeicho, Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture
Enshrined kami: Takehayasusaono mikoto
History: According to shrine tradition, it was founded in 540 (the first year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign). It was formerly known as Tsushima Gozu Tenno sha and was revered as a sacred site for warding off epidemics, alongside Kyoto’s Yasaka jinja.

Why Oda Nobunaga Revered Tsushima jinja as his “Ujigami” (Tutelary Deity)
It is impossible to talk about Tsushima jinja without mentioning its deep connection with the Three Great Unifiers of the Sengoku period. Oda Nobunaga, in particular, revered this jinja as his own ujigami.

– Secret of the family crest: The Oda clan’s family crest, “Oda Mokko,” is actually the same as Tsushima jinja’s shrine crest. Nobunaga unified Owari Province by leveraging Tsushima’s economic power, which is why he held this area in such high regard.
– Hideyoshi’s Romon Gate: The vibrant vermilion Romon gate, currently designated as a National Important Cultural Property, was donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Furthermore, the Honden (main hall) was donated by Matsudaira Tadayoshi’s wife (the fourth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu) to pray for his recovery from illness, making it truly a place revered by those who ruled the nation.

Legend and Mystery: The Untold Story of the “Lottery” That Deceived Hideyoshi
An interesting episode related to Toyotomi Hideyoshi remains.

Deeply impressed by the splendor of Tsushima jinja’s Tenno Matsuri festival at the time, Hideyoshi ordered, “Move this festival to Kyoto!” The distressed locals proposed a lottery, saying, “Let us consult the kami’s will.”

It is said that the locals had secretly rigged the lottery beforehand, making all the lots drawn by Hideyoshi’s messenger say “No.” In the end, Hideyoshi gave up, saying, “If the kami says no, then it cannot be helped.” This is an intriguing backstory that speaks to the wisdom and strong faith of the people of Tsushima.

The Mystery of the Strongest Amulet, the “Kurofuda” (Black Talisman)
Tsushima jinja is home to a powerful omamori (talisman) known to those in the know: the “Akuyaku Taisan Monfuda” (Plague Expelling Gate Talisman), commonly called “Kurofuda” (Black Talisman).

This is based on the legend of Somin Shorai. It originates from a promise Susanoo no mikoto made to the poor Somin Shorai, who offered him lodging during his journey: “If an epidemic breaks out, say ‘Descendant of Somin Shorai’ and bear a mark, and I will save you.”

It is said that by displaying this Kurofuda at your entrance, no calamity will enter your home. Its powerful efficacy has garnered renewed attention since the COVID-19 pandemic.

UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage: “Owari Tsushima Tenno Matsuri”
The Owari Tsushima Tenno Matsuri, held every July, is counted as one of Japan’s three great river festivals.

– Ethereal Lantern Boats: The sight of “Makiwara-bune” boats, adorned with 500 lanterns in a hemispherical shape, illuminating the river surface, is recorded to have been viewed by Nobunaga himself.
– 365 Lanterns: The number of lanterns decorating the boats, 365, represents the days in a year. The 12 lanterns hoisted on the central main mast represent the months of the year, making it a mystical festival closely tied to the calendar.

Anime Pilgrimage Spot Information
Tsushima jinja and its surroundings are also known as a pilgrimage spot for the popular anime, “Yatogame-chan Kansatsu Nikki.”

In the series, Tsushima jinja and the Tenno Matsuri are introduced as local Aichi Prefecture topics, with descriptions full of local charm. Anime fans can enjoy strolling through the shrine grounds while recalling scenes from the show.

After Your Visit
In the shrine town, you’ll find Tsushima’s famous “Akada” and “Kutsuwa,” very hard traditional sweets. These are lucky charms associated with the shrine’s festivals. As a souvenir of your visit, be sure to experience their historical crunch.

Tsushima jinja was considered so important during the Edo period that people would say, “If you visit Ise without visiting Tsushima, it’s only half a pilgrimage,” placing it on par with Ise Jingu. Why not feel a special power at this place where prayers for warding off epidemics and the ambitions of samurai warlords converge?

Related Links and References
[1] Somin Shorai | Japanese Fictional Tradition Personal Names Dictionary / Kokushi Daijiten / Sekai Daihyakka Jiten
[2] YouTube
[3] http://www.md.ccnw.ne.jp/rekishi_tajimi/%E5%B0%BE%E5%BC%B5%E3%80%80%E5%BC%8F%E5%A4%96%E7%A4%BE%E3%81%AB%E3%81%A4%E3%81%84%E3%81%A6.html
[4] Tsushima City Tourism Association » Tsushima jinja
[5] Tamapon Tsushin Ichiran / Tamapon Gift
[6] Prayer for Averting Evil Thoughts 🙏 Visiting Tsushima jinja, where Gozu Tenno is enshrined (Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture) – Yuriharu’s Shrine and Temple Power Spot Tour
[7] Tsushima jinja’s Gate Talisman | Prayers to Yaoyorozu no Kami (Eight Million Gods)

投稿 The Ultimate Power Spot for Repelling Epidemics! The Mysteries and Legends of Tsushima Jinja, Beloved by Oda Nobunaga Himself. は に最初に表示されました。

Location: 1-3 Banbamachi, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Yagokoro Omoikane no Mikoto, Chichibu Hiko no Mikoto, Ame no Minakanushi no Kami, Prince Chichibunomiya Yasuhito
Foundation: Said to have been founded in the 10th year of Emperor Sujin’s reign (87 BC), Chichibu Jinja has a history spanning over 2100 years and is one of Musashi Province’s four prominent shrines.
Architecture: The current main shrine building (shaden) was donated by Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1592, built in the Gongen-zukuri style.

“Legendary Carvings” by Master Craftsman Hidari Jingoro and Mysterious Episodes

The gorgeous and elaborate carvings adorning Chichibu Jinja’s main hall each hide intriguing legends and backstories.

The Mystery of the “Tethered Dragon”
This blue dragon carving guards the northeast (the unlucky direction, or ‘kimon’) of the shrine’s main hall. Legend has it that long ago, a dragon living in the nearby “Ama-ga-ike” pond would rampage every night, destroying rice fields. Curiously, a puddle would always form beneath this carving the morning after the dragon’s rampage. It is said that once the carved dragon was tethered with a chain, the real dragon stopped appearing. If you look closely at the carving today, you can still see the chain tightly wrapped around the dragon’s body.

The “Genki San-en” (Energetic Three Monkeys) – The Opposite of Nikko?
While Nikko Toshogu Shrine’s Three Wise Monkeys are famous for ‘see no evil, speak no evil, hear no evil,’ Chichibu Jinja’s three monkeys are the complete opposite. They represent a positive attitude relevant even in today’s information society: ‘look well, listen well, speak well,’ and are affectionately known as the ‘Genki San-en’ (Energetic Three Monkeys).

The Wisdom of the “Hokushin no Fukurou” (Northern Star Owl)
The owl carved on the north side of the main hall faces south with its body (towards the main hall), but its head is rotated 180 degrees to face due north. This is believed to represent the owl watching over the enshrined kami, who is a deification of the North Star (Myoken Bosatsu), day and night.

The Mystery of the “Leopard” mixed in with the “Tiger for Childbirth and Rearing”
A tiger carving adorns the front of the haiden (hall of worship). It was carved in commemoration of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was born in the Year of the Tiger, on the Day of the Tiger, and at the Hour of the Tiger. However, if you look closely at the mother tiger’s pattern, it is actually a leopard. This is said to be due to the Kano school’s painting technique of the time, which dictated that ‘a leopard must always be depicted within a group of tigers.’

“Gods’ Secret Rendezvous” and Backstory Hidden in Chichibu Night Festival

The Chichibu Night Festival (December 3rd), registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, holds a slightly poignant love legend.

This festival is the day when the goddess of Chichibu Jinja (Myoken Bosatsu) and the male kami of Mt. Buko (a dragon god, and a symbol of Chichibu) are permitted to meet just once a year for a ‘secret rendezvous.’

However, there’s a backstory to this secret meeting. It is said that the male kami of Mt. Buko actually has a legal wife, the goddess of Suwa Jinja. When the festival floats pass near Suwa Jinja, a ritual called ‘Suwa-watari’ is performed, where the festival music (hayashi) is stopped, and the floats pass by quietly to avoid incurring the wife’s wrath.

Anime Pilgrimage Site: Key Spot of the Chichibu Trilogy

Chichibu Jinja is also very famous as a pilgrimage site for anime fans, appearing in works set in Chichibu (known as the ‘Chichibu Trilogy’).

Anohana: The Flower We Saw That Day
It appears in scenes such as episode 4, where the protagonist, Jintan, confronts Yukiatsu about ‘fake Menma.’

The Anthem of the Heart
The shrine’s surroundings and approach are depicted in important scenes of the story.

Her Blue Sky
It appears throughout the work as part of the scenery, and the sight of ema (votive tablets) with anime artwork, dedicated by fans, is a unique charm of Chichibu Jinja.

Chichibu Jinja is an ancient shrine where legendary carvings, tales of gods’ love, and modern anime culture converge. Step inside, and you are sure to feel a mysterious energy that transcends time.

投稿 Chichibu’s Guardian Deity, Chichibu Jinja—2100 Years of History. A Journey to Explore The Connecting Dragon and Anime Pilgrimage Sites. は に最初に表示されました。

This time, we will delve into the intriguing legends passed down at this jinja, along with heartwarming ‘behind-the-scenes stories’ unique to the island.

Basic Information
Location: 723 Gun, Okinoshima Town, Oki District, Shimane Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Mizu-Wakasunomikoto
Divine Blessings: National development, maritime safety, protection of the Sea of Japan

The Unique Architectural Style: “Okizukuri”
Mizu-Wakasujinja’s Honden (main sanctuary) is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. The greatest highlight is its unique architectural style known as “Okizukuri,” which can only be seen here.

In fact, this style is a luxurious construction that incorporates the best features of Japan’s three major jinja architectural styles.

The front shape is “Shinmei-zukuri” from Ise Jingu.
The roof shape is “Taisha-zukuri” from Izumo Taisha.
The kohai (front eaves, the projecting roof part) is “Kasuga-zukuri” from Kasuga Taisha.

These elements merge to create a simple yet powerful beauty, unique to Oki.

Legend and Mystery: The Kami Who Appeared from the Sea
A dramatic legend of divine descent remains for the enshrined kami, Mizu-Wakasunomikoto.

According to tradition, the kami is said to have appeared “from the sea” at Igo Beach. From there, the kami crossed Mt. Omine and entered the present-day Goka district.

There is also a theory that this kami is a sibling kami to the kami of Tama-Wakasunomikoto Jinja, located on the same island. It is said that these two jinja protect the front and back sides of the island.

A Heartwarming Behind-the-Scenes Story: “Jinjo Sumo” – Sumo Without a Winner or Loser
Within the grounds of Mizu-Wakasujinja, there is a magnificent sumo ring (dohyo). However, the “Oki Classical Sumo” held here has a surprising rule that astonishes outsiders.

The rule is to “have two bouts, always ending in one win and one loss, resulting in a draw.”

This sumo, held through the night during major celebrations such as the Honden Sengu (rebuilding of the main sanctuary, including roof re-thatching) every 20 years, is also known as “Jinjo Sumo” (Humane Sumo). It is a tradition filled with the wisdom and kindness of the islanders, reflecting their desire to live together on a small island without leaving grudges due to wins or losses, instead praising each other.

The grounds were also a filming location for the movie “Kon-Shin” (released in 2013), which was based on this classical sumo, and a commemorative monument stands here.

Hidden Gems within the Grounds
Turtle Chozuya: As you proceed along the sando (approach path), a rare “turtle-shaped” chozuya (water ablution pavilion) greets you. As you purify yourself, ponder the origins of why it’s a turtle.

Mizu-Wakasujinja Kofun Cluster: Immediately behind the jinja grounds, there are scattered kofun (ancient burial mounds) believed to date from the 5th to 6th centuries. This mystery spot tells the story of how this area was a sacred site even before the jinja was established.

Daruma Omikuji: Next to the haiden (hall of worship), you’ll find adorable “Daruma Omikuji” (fortune slips inside Daruma dolls), each with a unique expression. Why not choose one just for yourself as a souvenir of your Oki journey?

Advice for Visitors
Mizu-Wakasujinja is said to possess strong power to protect the sea, so much so that even the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force visits to pray for safe voyages.

It’s about a 20-minute drive from Saigo Port. The surrounding area also features the “Oki Folk Museum” and the “Tsumame Folk House,” a grand farmhouse from the Edo period, making it an area where you can experience Oki’s history in its entirety.

Mizu-Wakasujinja is where the island’s harsh nature and the warm hearts of its inhabitants intersect. Step inside, and you are sure to feel the powerful presence of the kami who guards the Sea of Japan, as well as an atmosphere of nostalgic “human warmth” (jinjo).

投稿 Mizuwakasu Jinja, the Ichinomiya of Oki Province — A Shrine Where Human Spirit and Sacred Mystique Thrive on Oki-no-shima は に最初に表示されました。

This time, we will delve into the untold stories and legends of Kushida Jinja, which will make your visit even more enjoyable.

Kushida Jinja Basic Information
Location: 1-41 Kamikawabata-machi, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Ohata Nushi no Mikoto (Kushida-gu Shrine), Amaterasu Omikami (Daijingu Shrine), Susanoo no Mikoto (Gion-gu Shrine)
Founded: Believed to have been established in Tenpyo Hoji 1 (757 AD)
Blessings: Longevity, business prosperity, warding off evil

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1. Drink for Eternal Youth? The Salty Mystery of the ‘Reisen Tsuru no Ido’ (Sacred Spring Crane Well)
Located right next to the worship hall (haiden) is the ‘Reisen Tsuru no Ido,’ surrounded by three cranes. The water springing from this well has long been revered as ‘sacred water for eternal youth and longevity.’

This well water has a peculiar characteristic: it is salty.

This saltiness is actually a remnant from when Hakata was much closer to the sea than it is today, causing the groundwater to contain salt. In the past, there was a custom to drink ‘the first sip for one’s own longevity, the second for family, and the third for relatives.’ However, for water quality management reasons, drinking the water is now prohibited. Nevertheless, it is still carefully preserved today as a ‘memory of the sea’ that tells the history of Hakata.

2. Does it Rotate Every New Year’s Eve? The ‘Eto Ehoban’ (Zodiac Directional Board) on the Romon Gate Ceiling
When you pass through the Romon (the main gate), be sure to look up at the ceiling. There, you will see a vividly colored ‘Eto Ehoban’ hanging.

This is a directional board that indicates the ‘Eho’ (lucky direction) for the year. Amazingly, on New Year’s Eve every year, the arrow is rotated to point in the direction of the new zodiac sign for the coming year. It is a very rare mechanism that constantly indicates the dwelling place of ‘Toshitokujin,’ the kami who presides over fortune and blessings for that year.

3. Even Famous Sumo Wrestlers Lifted Them! The ‘Chikaraishi’ (Strength Stones) Lined Up on the Grounds
In one corner of the shrine grounds, giant stones are lined up. These are called ‘Chikaraishi,’ or strength stones, and were dedicated by sumo wrestlers who lifted them to demonstrate their power during the ‘Unohi Sumo’ wrestling matches formerly held at Kushida Jinja.

The names of famous past Yokozuna (grand champions) like Hakuho, Asashoryu, and Takanohana are carved into the stones. There are also ‘Tameshiishi’ (trial stones) that general visitors can attempt to lift, but please be careful not to hurt your back, as they are unimaginably heavy!

4. A 1000-Year-Old Sacred Tree and the ‘Moko Iwaishi’ (Mongol Anchor Stone)
The giant ginkgo tree on the shrine grounds is known as ‘Kushida no Gin nan’ and is a Fukuoka Prefectural designated natural monument, over 1000 years old.

If you look closely at the base of this tree, you will find a mysteriously shaped stone placed there. This is the ‘Moko Iwaishi,’ a stone anchor used by the ships of the Yuan Dynasty army that sank during the Mongol Invasions (Genko) in the Kamakura period. This witness to history, retrieved from the bottom of Hakata Bay, is quietly enshrined at the foot of the sacred tree.

5. Setsubun Limited! Japan’s Largest ‘Otafuku Mask’
Around the Setsubun season in February, a giant ‘Otafuku mask,’ approximately 5 meters tall and 4 meters wide, is installed at the gates of Kushida Jinja.

It is said that passing through the widely opened mouth of this Otafuku mask when visiting the shrine brings blessings for business prosperity and family safety. Its incredibly impactful appearance has become a winter tradition in Hakata and a popular topic on social media every year.

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Anime Pilgrimage Information: Setting for the Anime ‘Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens’
Kushida Jinja is also known as a pilgrimage site for the popular anime ‘Hakata Tonkotsu Ramens,’ which is set in Hakata.

In the anime, it frequently appears in scenes where the main characters gather and as an iconic Hakata landscape. In particular, the ‘Kazariyama Yamakasa’ (decorative float) displayed year-round and the view in front of the worship hall offer the exact same impactful scenery seen in the anime. Fans are encouraged to explore the shrine grounds from the same perspective as the characters in the show.

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Kushida Jinja is a place where Hakata’s history, festivals, and mysterious legends are condensed.

When you visit next, be sure to look at the anchor stone at your feet and the zodiac board on the ceiling, and immerse yourself in the mysteries of its profound history.

Related Links / References

投稿 Unraveling the Mysteries and Charms of “Okushida-san,” Hakata’s Guardian Shrine! A Comprehensive Guide to Kushida Jinja’s Mysterious Legends and Highlights は に最初に表示されました。

Basic Information

Location: 27 Terazawa, Oaza Hyakuzawa, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Iwaki-yama no Okami
Utsushikunitama no Kami (= Okuninushi no Kami)
Tatsuhime no Kami
Ukanome no Kami
Oyamatsumi no Kami
Sakanoue no Tamuramaro no Mikoto
Blessings: Good fortune and prosperity, business success, matchmaking/love, fertility, and more.

The Mystery of the Upside-Down Komainu: Boost Your Luck?

Alongside the stone steps leading to the Romon (Gate Tower, a National Important Cultural Property) of Iwaki-yama Jinja, sits a rare “upside-down komainu” (guardian dog statue), unique in Japan.

It is said that taking a photo with this komainu can improve your luck.

Komainu looking up: Improves financial luck
Komainu looking down (upside-down): Improves love luck and matchmaking

Its dynamic posture, as if clinging to the tamagaki (shrine fence), leaves an unforgettable impression. Be sure to look for it when you visit.

Legend: The Gentle Oni Without Horns and Sakanoue no Tamuramaro

Legends related to Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, the Seii Taishogun (Commander-in-Chief of the Expeditionary Force Against the Emishi), remain at Iwaki-yama Jinja.

It is said that one of the origins of the current Iwaki-yama Jinja dates back to Enryaku 19 (800 AD), when Tamuramaro, having received the divine protection of Iwaki-yama no Okami during his pacification of the Tohoku region, rebuilt the shrine buildings on the mountaintop.

Furthermore, this region has a unique culture where “oni” (ogres/demons) are revered as kami. While related to the nearby Oni Jinja, the oni of Mt. Iwaki are considered “good oni” who built a weir and brought water to the villagers. The character for “oni” (鬼) on the shrine’s hengaku (framed plaque) lacks the upper stroke (ノ) that represents horns. This depicts oni not as terrifying beings, but as guardian kami.

Mystery: The Mountain’s Wrath? The Taboo of Anju and Zushi-o

Mt. Iwaki holds a tragic mystery related to the famous story of Anju and Zushi-o.

According to legend, if people from Tango Province (present-day northern Kyoto Prefecture), the birthplace of Sansho Dayu who tormented Princess Anju, climb Mt. Iwaki, the mountain kami would become enraged and cause a storm. In the past, it was believed that the weather would worsen if someone from Tango entered Tsugaru, and there were even instances where people from Tango were actually refused lodging. This makes it a mysterious place with a historical “taboo.”

Pilgrimage Site: The Setting of the Anime ‘Flying Witch’

Iwaki-yama Jinja is also known as a pilgrimage site for the popular anime “Flying Witch,” which is set in Hirosaki City.

Episode 2: The torii gate and sando (approach path) of Iwaki-yama Jinja are beautifully depicted in the scene where “Haru no Hakobiya-san” (the Spring Deliverer) descends from the sky and meets the protagonist, Makoto, and her friends.
Original Comic Volume 1: The model for the cover art is said to be Gankisan Jinja, also known as the original shrine of Iwaki-yama Jinja. However, in the anime itself, the solemn atmosphere of Iwaki-yama Jinja is faithfully reproduced, and even those who are not fans will surely be overwhelmed by its sacred ambiance.

Points for Visiting: The Straight Approach Path and the ‘Headless Jizo’

The long sando (approach path) extending from the torii gate to the haiden (worship hall) stretches directly towards the summit of Mt. Iwaki. It is said that simply walking along this path allows you to fully absorb the powerful energy of the mountain.

Additionally, along the sando, there is a mysterious stone statue known as the “Headless Jizo,” which speaks to the depth of ancient folk beliefs.

Iwaki-yama Jinja is where the history, legends, and anime world of Tsugaru intersect.

Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in a mystical time that makes you forget the everyday. When you visit Aomori, be sure to experience the power of this sacred mountain firsthand.

Related Links / References

投稿 Embraced by Tsugaru’s Sacred Mountain, this is the ‘Oku-Nikko’ of the North! The Mysteries of Iwaki-yama jinja and the Secret of the Upside-down Komainu は に最初に表示されました。

The principal kami enshrined here are five kami: Susanoo no Mikoto, his consort Kushinadahime no Mikoto, her parents, and Onamuchi no Mikoto, who is also known as the kami of matchmaking at Izumo Taisha. As these kami include two married couples and thus form a “family” of deities, Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja has long been revered as a powerful spot for “matchmaking” and “harmonious family life”.

Legends and Mysteries of Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja

The Legend of the “Shining River”
A mysterious legend surrounds the jinja’s founding. Long ago, an unknown, shining object appeared at the bottom of the Iruma River, astonishing the people. It is believed that this “divine light of Hikawa” was revered, and the kami were invited to be enshrined at the current location, marking the jinja’s beginning. Even today, during the summer “Enmusubi Furin” (Wind Chimes for Matchmaking) event, a “Shining River” display projects light onto the small stream within the grounds, fantastically recreating this ancient legend.

The “Enmusubi-dama” (Matchmaking Orb), popular to the level of an urban legend
There is an old saying that if you take pebbles from the jinja grounds and cherish them, you will be blessed with a good match. Based on this, the “Enmusubi-dama” is distributed for free, limited to 20 pieces each morning starting at 8:00 AM. These are small pebbles collected one by one by purified miko (shrine maidens) and wrapped in a hemp net. They are so popular that people line up early in the morning to get a numbered ticket. A romantic follow-up story is also part of this: if someone who obtained an Enmusubi-dama is blessed with a good match and returns to the jinja with their partner to return it, they will receive a special amulet called “Yuijimo no Moto” (Origin of the Binding Cord) in exchange.

Inu-iwa (Dog Rock), the Guardian Kami for Safe Childbirth
Within the jinja grounds, there is a rock called “Inu-iwa” that closely resembles the profile of a dog with its snout extended. Dogs are considered symbols of safe childbirth because they give birth to many puppies easily. There is a belief that stroking this rock will bless one with children and easy delivery.

Anime Pilgrimage Information
Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja, with its atmospheric scenery, has been featured as a setting in many anime works.

Tsuki ga Kirei (As the Moon, So Beautiful)
A masterpiece anime depicting the pure love of middle school students set in Kawagoe. In episode 8, there is a beautifully depicted scene where the protagonist Kotaro and heroine Akane visit during the “Enmusubi Furin” event. You can enjoy landscapes that are exactly like the scenes from the anime, such as the Ema Tunnel (votive tablet tunnel) and the wind chime corridor.

Kamisama Hajimemashita (Kamisama Kiss)
It is said to be one of the models for “Mikage Shrine,” the main setting of the work. The jinja’s atmosphere and the surrounding townscape are deeply intertwined with the anime’s worldview, making it an essential pilgrimage spot for fans.

Enjoying Your Visit: Fishing for “Tai-mikuji”
Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja is famous for its unique style of “fishing” for omikuji (fortunes). Adorable tai (sea bream) shaped omikuji, with playful names like “Ichinen Antai” (meaning “peaceful year,” a pun on “tai”) for a year of peace and “Aitai” (meaning “want to meet,” a pun on “tai”) for good relationships, are placed in special tubs, and you “fish” them out with a rod. While very popular on social media for their cuteness, these are actually offerings filled with a playful spirit typical of a jinja that cherishes local traditional culture, such as the float events of the Kawagoe Festival, which has continued since the Edo period.

With 1500 years of history, Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja constantly attracts people, whether as an anime setting or through its modern, photogenic festivals. Why not visit Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja to seek out your own mysterious connections, while also exploring “Little Edo” Kawagoe?

Related Links and References

投稿 Sacred Site for Tying Bonds – Kawagoe Hikawa Jinja: 1500 Years of History, an Anime Setting, and the Wonderful Connections Guided by ‘Tai’ (Sea Bream) は に最初に表示されました。

Basic Information
Location: Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture, Tenjin-cho 1-2-1
Enshrined kami: Sugawara no Michizane (Tenjin-sama), Ame no Hohi no Mikoto
Main Blessings: Academic success, Protection from evil, Industrial prosperity, Family safety and harmony
History: According to shrine legend, it is an ancient jinja said to have been founded as “Isobe Myojin” during the reign of Emperor Keiko (around the 1st century). In 1591, following the construction of Kiryu Shinmachi under orders from Tokugawa Ieyasu, it was relocated to its current site to serve as the town’s starting point (shukuto).

“Nikko’s Back Parlor”? Breathtaking Polychrome Carvings
Kiryu Tenmangu’s greatest highlight is undoubtedly the intricate carvings that adorn its entire shrine building (shaden). The current shaden was completed during the Kansei era (1789-1793) in the late Edo period, crafted by master artisans like Sekiguchi Bunjiro, who also worked on the repairs of Nikko Toshogu.

In particular, the carvings on the Honden walls, themed after the “Twenty-Four Paragons of Filial Piety,” represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship from that era. Their splendor has earned them the praise of being “masterpieces following the lineage of Nikko Toshogu’s carving techniques.” A closer look reveals humorous lions and even mysterious carvings that seem to be “pulling a face,” showcasing the playful spirit of the artisans.

The City’s “North Star”? Mysteries Hidden in Urban Planning
Kiryu Tenmangu jinja possesses an aspect beyond that of a mere shrine; it served as a “cornerstone of urban planning.”

During the Edo period, when Kiryu Shinmachi (the new town of Kiryu) was developed, the jinja was strategically placed at the northern end of Honcho-dori, the town’s main street. This arrangement is said to have been based on Feng Shui and star worship, envisioning the jinja as the “North Star” from which the town would expand southward.

In fact, the shrine grounds (keidai) are known as a “Feng Shui power spot,” and within the inner sanctum of the Honden are enshrined the Four Divine Beasts (Shijin) protecting the four directions: Seiryu (Azure Dragon), Byakko (White Tiger), Suzaku (Vermilion Bird), and Genbu (Black Tortoise). It is believed that by praying here, one can receive the energy (ki) of heaven and earth, attracting a continuous stream of people wishing for improved fortune.

Legends and Backstories: The Stone Ox and the Origin of “Kiryu”
Within the shrine grounds, unique legends related to “oxen” remain, characteristic of Tenmangu jinja.

Legend of the Ox Stone (Ushi-ishi): There is a legend that a kami once tied up a lazy ox with a rope to admonish it, but the ox remained unrepentant and turned into a stone. On the sando (approach path), there is also a haiku monument inscribed with Matsuo Basho’s verse inspired by this legend: “Ushi-ishi ya / hikare tazuna ni / ito-zakura” (Ox stone / by the pulled rein / thread-like cherry blossoms).

The “Kiryū” Carvings: On the front of the Honden, there are carvings of an ascending dragon and a descending dragon. One theory suggests a romantic backstory that this “Kiryū” (noble dragon) became one of the origins for the place name “Kiryu.”

Anime Pilgrimage: The Setting for “The Flowers of Evil”
Kiryu City is known as the setting for the popular manga and anime “Aku no Hana” (The Flowers of Evil) by Shuzo Oshimi.

In the work, the Tenjin-cho area around Kiryu Tenmangu and the old townscape of Honcho-dori, which extends from the jinja, are depicted as important landscapes that form the story’s unique atmosphere, which is both profound and somewhat stifling. The presence of this Tenmangu jinja is particularly felt along the school routes the protagonists walk and in the perspectives looking down over the city. For fans, it has become an indispensable pilgrimage spot to trace the poignant memories of youth depicted in the work.

Best Time to Visit: On the Day of the “Old Tools & Antique Market”
On the first Saturday of every month, a large-scale antique market, counted as one of the “Three Great Kanto Antique Markets,” is held within the shrine grounds. Over 80 shops from across the country gather, and the sight of used kimonos, ceramics, old tools, and more lined up seems to convey the history of the shrine grounds, once bustling with textile markets.

The craftsmanship hidden in its intricate carvings, the ancient wisdom embedded in the city’s design, and its connection to the world of anime. Kiryu Tenmangu jinja is a place full of profound charm, offering new discoveries with every visit.

Related Links and References
[1] 桐生天満宮と上州の彫物大工 – あかがねの道 (https://akaganekaidou.jimdofree.com/%E6%A1%90%E7%94%9F%E5%A4%A9%E6%BA%80%E5%AE%AE%E3%81%A8%E4%B8%8A%E5%B7%9E%E3%81%AE%E5%BD%AB%E7%89%A9%E5%A4%A7%E5%B7%A5/)
[2] https://www.kiryucci.or.jp/html/20tayori/kiryukikou/pdf/80_1707tayori.pdf
[3] 桐生天満宮｜由緒ある関東五大天神の歴史と見どころ、参拝情報を完全ガイド – わのっとメディア (https://waknot.com/spot/5096)
[4] 桐生天満宮 (桐生市) (https://genbu.net/data/kouzuke/kiryutenman_title.htm)
[5] 由緒・歴史 – 桐生天満宮公式ホームページ (https://kiryutenjin.jp/yuisyo/)
[6] 11年越しの聖地巡礼～惡の華 中学生編～｜Rera (https://note.com/rera3342/n/n51b617f566e8)
[7] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MCBM1v22Mf0
[8] 桐生天満宮 (https://gunma.mytabi.net/kiryu-tenmangu-shrine.php)
[9] たまぽん通信一覧 / たまぽんギフト (https://tamapongift.com/article/2022/08/gumma-anime.html)

投稿 Guardian kami of the Textile Town: Kiryu Tenmangu – Sculptural Beauty Reminiscent of Nikko Toshogu and the Mystery of the Town’s Origin は に最初に表示されました。

Basic Information

Location: 71 Oarashi, Fujikawaguchiko-machi, Minamitsuru-gun, Yamanashi Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Onamuchi no Mikoto, Sukunahikona no Mikoto, Sugawara no Michizane-ko
Main Divine Blessings: Academic achievement, matchmaking, bountiful harvest, warding off evil

1200 Years of History and the “Storm” Legend

The founding of Oarashi Tenjinsha dates back to the early Heian period, specifically to the second year of Daido (807 CE). It is believed to have begun when the villagers of Oarashi invited Onamuchi no Mikoto and Sukunahikona no Mikoto, kami of nation-building, to be enshrined.

The striking place name ‘Oarashi’ (literally ‘Great Storm’) has its background in the fact that this area was subject to strong winds blowing down from Mount Fuji. The jinja has served as a ‘sakai no kami’ (kami of boundaries), calming the fierce natural threat (the storm) and protecting the village’s borders.

Later, around the Tenryaku era (950 CE) in the mid-Heian period, Sugawara no Michizane-ko, renowned as the kami of scholarship, was enshrined alongside them, and the jinja began to be widely revered as a Tenmangu.

The “Behind-the-Scenes Story” of Reverence by Takeda Shingen’s Ancestors

This jinja has a deep connection with the Takeda clan, powerful daimyo of Kai province.

It is said that during the late Heian period, Shinra Saburo Yoshimitsu (Minamoto no Yoshimitsu), one of the ancestors of the Takeda clan, provided generous protection to the jinja. Furthermore, in Eikyo 12 (1440 CE) during the Muromachi period, Takeda Nobushige, an ancestor of Takeda Shingen, constructed the main hall.

Although the original main hall was once lost in a great fire at the end of the Edo period, the current main hall, rebuilt in Koka 2 (1845 CE), is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by Fujikawaguchiko town due to its exquisite craftsmanship.

Mystery of the Dazaifu Plum Blossoms in the Shrine Grounds

When one thinks of Tenjin-sama, one thinks of plum blossoms, but the plum trees at Oarashi Tenjinsha have a special story.

It is said that the plum trees planted in the jinja grounds were brought here and planted by a former resident of this district, who received them directly from the chief priest of Dazaifu Tenmangu in Fukuoka Prefecture. These plum trees, transported all the way from Kyushu to the foot of Mount Fuji, still delight students and visitors with their blossoms every spring.

Super Cub Anime Pilgrimage Site

Oarashi Tenjinsha is also known as a pilgrimage site for the popular anime ‘Super Cub,’ which depicts the daily lives of high school girls who love motorcycles.

In episode 12 (the final episode), the area around this jinja and the nearby Oarashi Tunnel (Tenjin Tunnel) appear during the protagonists Koguma and her friends’ ‘Spring Journey’ as they head south in search of spring.

The jinja’s appearance, surrounded by a quiet forest, captures the very essence of the anime’s world, and many fans, including Cub owners (owners of Super Cub motorcycles), visit this place to follow in their footsteps.

Points for Visiting

The jinja is located on a ridge (Tenjin Pass) nestled between Mount Hanego and Mount Ashiwada, and the surrounding air is exceptionally clear.

While it has not been developed into a flashy tourist destination, precisely because of this, it is a power spot where you can feel the solemn atmosphere of a ‘sacred precinct.’ When you visit Fujikawaguchiko, why not extend your journey a little and experience the quiet breath of the kami who calms the storms?

Related Links / References
Jinja Fan
Kawaguchiko.net
Weblio Dictionary
Wikipedia
Note.com

投稿 At the Foot of Mt. Fuji, Ooarashi Tenjin-jinja: Home to the Kami of Scholarship Who Calms Storms – Delving into its History with the Takeda Clan and its Status as an Anime Pilgrimage Site は に最初に表示されました。

Location: 4410 Kōchi, Kanocho, Tottori City, Tottori Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Amaterasu Omikami, Oyamatsumi no Mikoto, Uka no Mitama no Mikoto
Access: Approximately 20 minutes by bus from JR Hōki Station, alight at “Mogoya” stop, then a 15-minute walk. By car, approximately 40 minutes from Tottori City.
Features: 264 steep stone steps leading up to the shrine building.

The Mystery of the Name “Moke” and its Fortune Legend

Mouke Jinja is nestled in a quiet mountain valley in Tottori City. This unique name, pronounced “Moke,” sounds identical to the Japanese word for “profit” or “gain” (mōke). Because of this, it has recently attracted visitors from all over Japan as a “super power spot for financial luck and business prosperity.”

Originally, the jinja was known as “Myoken Daigongen” and was quietly revered as a local tutelary kami. However, its fate changed significantly in Genroku 5 (1692) when it was renamed “Myoken Mouke Gu.” The precise origin of why the kanji “茂宇気” was chosen for “Moke” remains a mystery to this day, though one theory suggests it evolved from “mike,” meaning “food” or “offerings.”

The 264 Stone Steps: A “Trial for Wealth”?

To visit this jinja, there is an unavoidable “trial”: the 264 steep stone steps that lead up to the main shrine building.

The moss-covered staircase winding through a dense cedar forest makes each step feel heavy, and by the time you reach the top, you’ll be breathless. However, it is believed that ascending these stairs by your own strength is a form of spiritual training to achieve great “mōke” (profit).

Along the way, there is a “happiness guestbook” where visitors can write their aspirations and a chozuya (hand-washing basin) to take a break. The serene atmosphere of the main shrine building, reached after such a strenuous climb, truly feels like a sacred space. Along with a sense of accomplishment, you’re sure to feel a mysterious cleansing of the heart.

Insider Tips and Visiting Advice

When visiting Mouke Jinja, it’s crucial not to forget where to receive your goshuin (pilgrimage stamp) and omamori (charm). There is actually no shrine office within the jinja grounds.

To obtain your goshuin or omamori, you need to travel approximately 2km from Mouke Jinja to the office of Jūbō Jinja (in Imadaki, Kanocho, Tottori City). This inconvenience of having to go a little further is embraced by dedicated visitors as part of “the process of gaining virtue.”

Also, access to the parking lot and shrine building can be difficult in winter due to snow, so visiting between spring and autumn is best. The annual festival on October 17th is particularly lively, a stark contrast to the usual quietude, and attracts many people.

If you’ve been feeling like your luck is stagnant or you want your business to succeed, why not visit this “kami of profit” nestled deep in the mountains of Tottori? Your own good fortune might be waiting at the top of those 264 steps.

Related Links / References
Mouke Jinja | Tottori Prefecture Shrine Association (Official Website)
Mouke Jinja | Tottori Tottori City Recommended Popular Sightseeing/Outing Spots – Yahoo! Travel
Tabi Salad PLUS | Asahi Broadcasting
501 Not Implemented
Mouke Jinja – Wikipedia
Tamapon Tsushin List / Tamapon Gift
Mouke Jinja | Tourist Spots | Tottori City Tourism Site [Official] – Recommended Sightseeing/Travel Information for Tottori City
Mouke Jinja – All Tottori Dot Com (Tottori, Kurayoshi, Yonago)
[Tottori Prefecture] Sure to bring good fortune! 10 Shrines Known as Power Spots – TripLovers

投稿 Ready to skyrocket your financial luck!? Conquer the 264-step challenge at Moke Jinja, a secluded shrine in Tottori, and seize your ‘fortune’! は に最初に表示されました。

Basic Information
Location: 135 Honkyo, Yamanaka, Tamura-machi, Koriyama City, Fukushima Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Sakanoue no Tamuramaro
Founded: Daido era (806-810)

The Legend of “The Beauty and The Ugly Woman” Surrounding the Hero’s Birth

This area, where Tamura Jinja is located, holds a very interesting legend about the birth of Sakanoue no Tamuramaro.

According to the legend, when Tamuramaro’s father, Sakanoue no Karitamaro, was engaged in the subjugation of the Emishi people in this region, he was led by a mysterious light to the pure spring water of “Tokusa-Tamura.” There, he is said to have encountered “the most unattractive woman in the land” (Mikuniichi no Shikome) who was gathering water dropwort.

However, when Karitamaro brought this woman back to his camp, she eventually gave birth to a boy as precious as a jewel. This boy was the future Tamuramaro, and one theory suggests that the name “Tamura” was given in honor of his birthplace. The mystery behind the hero’s mother being remembered as an “ugly woman” could be an expression concealing the identity of a powerful local’s daughter, or perhaps she was a deified being.

A Meiji Era Mystery: The “Buddhist Implement Dispute Trial” Between a Jinja and a Temple

Tamura Jinja has a history of a “trial” that is rare even across Japan.

Originally, this site was founded as a Buddhist temple called Chinjusan Taihei-ji, embracing the syncretic fusion of Shinto and Buddhism (shinbutsu shugo). However, due to the Shinbutsu Bunri (Separation of Shinto and Buddhism) ordinance in the Meiji era, it was renamed Tamura Jinja. At that time, Buddhist implements and treasures that had been housed there were moved to the nearby Entsu-ji temple.

Later, however, the jinja demanded their return, claiming they were jinja treasures. This astonishingly escalated into a lawsuit. Ultimately, a settlement was reached with an unusual condition: the Buddhist implements would be returned to the jinja, but the religious ceremonies would be conducted by Entsu-ji temple. Even today, despite being a jinja, it strongly retains vestiges of its former temple identity, a testament to this complex history.

A Treasure Trove Visited by Matsuo Basho

In Genroku 2 (1689), Matsuo Basho and Sora also visited this area during their journey chronicled in “Oku no Hosomichi” (The Narrow Road to the Deep North). Sora’s diary records their visit to the then “Daimyoshu Myo-o” (which is now Tamura Jinja) and their viewing of numerous jinja treasures.

Even today, a haiku monument inscribed with Basho’s poem “Furuyu no hatsu ya Oku no ta ueuta” (“The beginning of elegance / Is in the rice planting songs / Of the deep north”) stands on the grounds, making it a sacred site for literature fans.

Don’t Miss These! Highlights Within the Grounds

1. Prefectural Designated Important Cultural Property: Zushi (Miniature Shrine)
The zushi enshrined inside the main hall (honden) is a valuable structure showcasing the architectural style of the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Its intricate decorations reveal the high level of craftsmanship from that era.

2. Impressive Large Ema (Votive Tablets)
Huge ema, designated as Prefectural Important Cultural Properties, such as the “Oe-yama” and “Three Heroes of the Three Kingdoms” paintings, are dedicated here. The presence of such high-quality ema is evidence of how deeply this region has been revered since ancient times.

3. Sacred Sword Donated by Date Yoshimura
A tachi (long sword) inscribed “Oshu Sendai-ju Kunitsugu,” donated by Date Yoshimura, the 5th lord of the Sendai domain, was designated as a Koriyama City Important Cultural Property in Reiwa 6 (2024). This indicates the profound reverence the Date family held for the jinja.

Seasonal Colors and “Yamanaka Matsuri”

Tamura Jinja offers seasonal beauty with spring’s dogtooth violet flowers, summer’s “Yamanaka Matsuri” festival, and autumn’s illuminated fall foliage. Especially during the autumn foliage season in November, the illuminated approach creates a magical atmosphere, inviting visitors into a world of mysterious legends.

From the hero Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, through Basho’s visit, to the Meiji-era courtroom drama, Tamura Jinja in Koriyama City is a place full of historical mysteries that reveal deeper layers the more you learn. Why not pay a visit and experience its solemn atmosphere for yourself?

Related Links / References
[1] https://masmas-fukushima.com/archives/1879
[2] https://www.hidemaru3375.com/post/%E5%9D%82%E4%B8%8A%E7%94%B0%E6%9D%91%E9%BA%BB%E5%91%82%EF%BC%9A%E7%94%B0%E6%9D%91%E7%A5%9E%E7%A4%BE
[3] https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E5%9D%82%E4%B8%8A%E7%94%B0%E6%9D%91%E9%BA%BB%E5%91%82%E4%BC%9D%E8%AA%AC
[4] http://www.komainu.org/fukusima/kooriyamasi/TamuraYamaHon/tamu.html
[5] https://geo.d51498.com/urawa0328/hosomiti2/tamurajinja.html
[6] https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E7%94%B0%E6%9D%91%E7%A5%9E%E7%A4%BE_(%E9%83%A1%E5%B1%B1%E5%B8%82)
[7] https://www.city.koriyama.lg.jp/uploaded/attachment/80666.pdf
[8] https://fukushima-db.com/bunkazai/kenchu/koriyama/129/
[9] https://www.city.koriyama.lg.jp/soshiki/146/1871.html
[10] https://note.com/atsushi_arekore/n/n8e3e2c4902c6
[11] https://www.kanko-koriyama.gr.jp/tourism/detail2-0-80.html
[12] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTe93AP492I
[13] https://0743sh0927sh.seesaa.net/article/201703article_12.html

投稿 Tamura Jinja: Where the Legend of Sakanoue no Tamuramaro Lives On – A Journey Through Koriyama’s History and Mysteries は に最初に表示されました。