Do you know? A Japanese shrine just an hour away from the city.
This time, i am Introducing Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha Shrine.
The History and Charm of Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha Shrine
Nestled in the city of Inagi, Tokyo, Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha Shrine (おおまとのつのてんじんしゃ) is a place steeped in history and mystery.
The name "Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha" holds deep meaning, signifying "a large, round plain with a boat landing." This name indicates that this location has been a crucial crossing point on the Tama River since ancient times, supporting people's lives and logistics as a ferrying point across the river.
This geographical feature is reflected in the name, and the existence of Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha Shrine tells the story of this area being a central hub of human activity since ancient times.
The origins of this shrine date back to the Heian period, and it is listed in the "Engishiki Jinmyoucho," a directory of significant shrines compiled in 927 AD. This directory includes shrines that were deemed important by the imperial court, serving as a foundational document for religious management at the time and indicating the shrine's high status.
The current main shrine building was constructed in 1867, during the late Edo period, showcasing the pinnacle of craftsmanship with exquisite carvings. The late Edo period, or "Bakumatsu," marks the end of the Edo era and the beginning of the Meiji era, a time when Commodore Matthew Perry arrived in Japan with his Black Ships, leading to the eventual transfer of power from the Tokugawa Shogunate to Emperor Meiji (known as the Meiji Restoration), establishing a new government.
The Mystical Scenery and Festivals of Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha Shrine
The main shrine building is situated on the slopes of Tenjin Mountain, offering a breathtaking view of the Tama River. As you ascend the stone steps and walk through the verdant approach, an awe-inspiring shrine emerges before your eyes. In that moment, it feels as though you have stepped into another world.
This sacred place is imbued with a divine atmosphere, providing a sense of liberation from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a feeling of purification for the soul.
Within the shrine grounds, you will find many auxiliary shrines, including Tsushima Shrine, Hakusan Shrine, Shinmei Shrine, Inari Shrine, and Akiba Shrine, each with its own unique history and festivals.
Notably, the Tenno-sama Festival in mid-July, the Kazematsuri on September 1st, and the Autumn Grand Festival in early October are the highlights of this shrine. During the evening of the Grand Festival, lanterns are lit, enveloping the shrine in a fantastical atmosphere.
Adjacent to the shrine is Enshoji Temple, a beautiful structure standing in serene solitude, further enhancing the charm of this area. When visiting Inagi City, be sure to stop by Oomato no Tsuno Tenjinsha Shrine and experience the mystical space and deep history it offers.
