By ando 
In Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture, a place that once flourished as the center of Totomi Province (Totomi no Kuni), stands a jinja with a name rare across Japan. Its name is Fuhachimangu (Fuhachiman-gu). This time, we will introduce the charm and hidden stories of this ancient shrine, which captivates everyone from history enthusiasts to anime fans.
Basic Information
Location: 112-1 Nakaizumi, Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Hondawake no Mikoto (Emperor Ojin), Tarashinakatsuhiko no Mikoto (Emperor Chuai), Okinagatarashihime no Mikoto (Empress Jingu)
Founded: Tenpyo Era (729-748 AD)
The Pride of a Former Capital, Contained in the Single Character ‘Fu’
The single character ‘Fu’ (府) in the jinja’s name signifies that this area was once home to a ‘koku-fu’ during the Nara Period. A koku-fu was the provincial capital, serving as the center of local administration (similar to a modern prefectural capital). This name, meaning ‘Hachiman-sama of the Provincial Capital,’ is exceptionally rare throughout Japan and stands as proof that Iwata was once the political and cultural hub of Totomi Province.
The jinja was founded by Prince Sakurai (Sakurai-O), a great-grandson of Emperor Shomu. It is said that when he was appointed as the provincial governor (kokushi) to this region, he enshrined the kami here to protect the koku-fu and pray for the peace of the area.
The Rommon (Two-Storied Gate) and the Mystery of its Sculptures, Conveying Edo Beauty to the Present Day
As you walk along the approach path, your eyes will be drawn to the magnificent Rommon, designated as a Shizuoka Prefectural Cultural Property. Built in the 12th year of Kanei (1635), this gate is a sanma-itto Rommon style, boasting a solemn presence with its hipped-and-gabled roof.
What truly stands out are the intricate carvings adorning every detail. The graceful curves carved into the central rainbow beam (koryo) and the chrysanthemum leaf motifs on the cantilever brackets (mochiokuri) exemplify the condensed craftsmanship of the early Edo period. In fact, there is a theory that this Rommon was donated by the Tokugawa family, and its dignified elegance indeed conveys the prestige associated with the Shogun’s family.
A Kami Who Lived for 280 Years?! The Untold Story of ‘Boke Fūji’ (Dementia Prevention)
Within the jinja grounds, you will also find a rather unique spiritual spot. Enshrined in Takeuchi-sha, one of the auxiliary shrines, is the legendary loyal retainer Takeuchi no Sukune. He is a kami of longevity, famous for serving five emperors and, according to legend, living for an astonishing 280 years (or even over 300 years).
Drawing on his miraculous lifespan, this shrine has now become a quiet but popular spot for prayers for ‘boke fūji’ (dementia prevention) and ‘longevity’.
A Bond of Hearts Continuing from the Manyo Era
To the southeast of the grounds stands a Manyoshu poetry monument (Manyo kabi). Inscribed here is an exchanged poem (zotoka) between Emperor Shomu and Prince Sakurai.
The poem reads: ‘Like the waves that lap upon the long shores of Oura, my heart is at ease and magnanimous as I think of you.’
This episode conveys the Emperor’s tenderness, thinking of Prince Sakurai who was striving in the provinces, far from the capital.
As a ‘Holy Site’ for the Anime ‘Yuru Camp△’
Fuhachimangu is also well-known for appearing in episode 2 of the popular anime ‘Yuru Camp△ Season 2.’
It was depicted as a place where one of the main characters, Rin Shima, stopped during her Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the New Year). Scenes in the anime show Rin looking up at the Rommon and drawing an omikuji (fortune slip). The scenery depicted in the anime is faithfully reproduced here, making it a special place for fans to ‘feel the same atmosphere as Rin-chan.’
To Conclude Your Visit
The jinja grounds, enveloped in lush greenery and also known as the ‘Tenpyo Forest’ (Tenpyo no Mori), allow you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city the moment you step inside. The beautifully designed goshuin (red seal stamps), which change monthly, are also popular, promising new discoveries with every visit.
Fuhachimangu is where the depths of history intersect with contemporary anime culture. When you visit Iwata, be sure to pass through its gate and experience the atmosphere that has been preserved and passed down for over a thousand years.
Related Links and References
[1] Fuhachimangu in Goten, Iwata City – sannigo’s Arakana Diary
[2] About Fuhachimangu | Fuhachimangu | Nakaizumi, Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture
[3] Shizuoka Cultural Properties Navi: Fuhachimangu Rommon | Shizuoka Prefecture Official Website
[4] Record of Visit to Fuhachimangu, Hachiman-sama of Nakaizumi [Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture] – Shin-chan’s Room
[5] Fuhachimangu – Jinja Fan
[6] Fuhachimangu Rommon | Iwata City Official Website
[7] Fuhachimangu [Iwata City] – Koshin Jinja Hokan
[8] Fuhachimangu (Iwata City)