By ando 
Tamaoya Jinja, located at the foot of Mount Shigi in Yao City, Osaka Prefecture, is a hidden power spot where the romance of ancient times and the breath of mythology still strongly linger. This article delves into the charms of Tamaoya Jinja, including the legends surrounding the Yasakani no Magatama, one of the Three Sacred Treasures, and the mysterious birdsong echoing through its grounds.
Basic Information About Tamaoya Jinja
Location: 5-5-93 Kodachi, Yao City, Osaka Prefecture
Enshrined Kami: Tamaoya no Mikoto
Status: Ninomiya of Kawachi Province, Shikinaisha
Access: Approximately 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Shigi Line’s Shigisan-guchi Station
Mythology Backstory: The Kami Who Created a Sacred Treasure
Tamaoya no Mikoto, the main enshrined kami of Tamaoya Jinja, plays a very important role in Japanese mythology. When Amaterasu Omikami hid herself in Ama-no-Iwato, the heavenly rock cave, the Yaoyorozu no Kami (countless kami) made various preparations to lure her out. It is said that Tamaoya no Mikoto was the one who created the Yasakani no Magatama at that time.
This magatama later became one of the Three Sacred Treasures inherited by successive emperors. In other words, this place can be considered the origin of the “kami of gems and accessories.” Even today, jewelers and creators visit the shrine, praying for the improvement of their skills.
Mystery of the Natural Monument “Naganakidori (Kurokashiwa)”
As you walk through the grounds of Tamaoya Jinja, you will hear a powerful “cock-a-doodle-doo” from somewhere. This is the crow of a chicken called Kurokashiwa, kept within the shrine grounds.
Actually, this is no ordinary chicken. It is a type of Naganakidori (long-crowing fowl), designated as a national natural monument.
Why are chickens kept at a jinja? This originates from the Ama-no-Iwato legend. It is said that when Amaterasu Omikami hid in the rock cave, these Naganakidori were made to crow in the darkness to announce the “dawn” and call her out.
The Kurokashiwa at Tamaoya Jinja, as its name suggests (kuro means black), is characterized by its glossy black body and very long tail feathers. Their crowing is not merely a morning signal; it is carefully preserved as a “sacred sound” that awakens kami and restores light to the world.
Legend Hidden in the Place Name “Kodachi”
The place name “Kodachi,” where the jinja is located, also has an interesting story.
According to legend, when the Yaoyorozu no Kami gathered at Mount Shigi, they stopped here once to compose themselves. Alternatively, the name “Kodachi” (meaning “kami stand” or “kami descend”) came from the kami descending upon this land.
Furthermore, this area is believed to have been home to the ancient Tamatsukuri (magatama makers) clan, and historical evidence, such as traces of ancient magatama production, has been found nearby.
Highlights Within the Grounds and the Scenery of “Takayasu no Sato”
As Tamaoya Jinja is located on a hill, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Osaka Plain from its grounds. The sunset, in particular, when the setting sun dyes the city in golden hues, is a magnificent sight.
Near the main hall, there are scattered stone monuments shaped like magatama and other steles commemorating the achievements of Tamaoya no Mikoto. Spending time in the quiet forest, listening to the Naganakidori’s call while contemplating the passion of ancient artisans, will make you forget the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Points for Worship
Tamaoya Jinja is often visited in conjunction with Hiraoka Jinja, which is also the Ichinomiya (highest-ranked shrine) of Kawachi Province. Since it is also part of Mount Shigi’s hiking course, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes for your visit.
Tamaoya Jinja is where the world of mythology and modern times intersect. Why not visit and experience the power of the kami who created the Three Sacred Treasures, and the crow of the bird announcing the dawn?
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