Unraveling Mitsumine Shrine History: Discover the Charms of a Hidden Power Spot

Japan is home to countless places that are not only beautiful but also steeped in profound history and culture. Among them, Mitsumine Shrine, nestled in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, continues to captivate many. As an international visitor, you might wonder, "Why are Japanese shrines so mystical?" or "Why is there a shrine in such a remote mountain?"

After reading this article, you'll surely realize that what's commonplace in Japan can be truly special to the rest of the world.

• You'll uncover the mystical history and origins of Mitsumine Shrine.
• You'll gain a deeper understanding of the unique culture and beliefs of Mitsumine Shrine, such as its wolf worship.
• You'll learn about the must-see highlights and essential tips for visiting Mitsumine Shrine.
• You'll discover why Mitsumine Shrine attracts so many people.

So, let's embark on a journey to explore the unknown history and charm of Mitsumine Shrine!

A Journey to Explore the History and Mysticism of Mitsumine Shrine

Delving into the history of Mitsumine Shrine further enhances its mystical allure. Here, we'll explore the shrine's beginnings, significant events leading up to the present day, and the culture cultivated throughout its history.

Mitsumine Shrine is not just old; by touching upon the depth of its history, you'll see why so many people are drawn to it.

The Secret History of Mitsumine Shrine's Founding: A Deep Connection with Yamato Takeru no Mikoto

The founding of Mitsumine Shrine is said to date back approximately 1,900 years, to the reign of the 12th Emperor Keiko (around 71-130 AD). A hero etched into Japanese history, Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, is deeply involved in the origin of this ancient shrine.

During his expedition to pacify eastern Japan, Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, on his way from Kai Province (present-day Yamanashi Prefecture) to Usui Pass (bordering Gunma and Nagano Prefectures), was captivated by the beauty of the mountains and rivers of Mitsumine-yama (present-day Chichibu City). Moved by the grandeur of the scenery, and to commemorate the great achievement of nation-building, he enshrined Izanagi no Mikoto and Izanami no Mikoto, the divine couple who appear in Japanese mythology. This is believed to be the beginning of Mitsumine Shrine.

Izanagi and Izanami are crucial deities in Japanese mythology, credited with creating the islands of Japan. Consequently, Mitsumine Shrine has long been associated with prayers for abundant harvests, good fishing, and marital harmony.

The name "Mitsumine" itself also originates from an episode involving Yamato Takeru no Mikoto. After his death, Emperor Keiko, while in Kazusa Province (present-day Chiba Prefecture), heard a story about "three mountains standing tall and beautiful in a row." In honor of these words, the three peaks of Myohogatake (1,332m), Shiraiwa-yama (1,921m), and Kumotori-yama (2,017m) were named "Mitsumine," meaning "Three Peaks."

Thus, Mitsumine Shrine is not just a shrine; it's a place where Japanese mythology, history, and the beauty of nature are condensed.

The Origin of Wolf Worship: The Mysterious Relationship Between Mitsumine Shrine and Wolves

When discussing Mitsumine Shrine, "wolf worship," specifically the reverence for wolves known as "O-inu-sama," is indispensable. As an international visitor, you might be surprised to find wolf statues instead of the usual guardian komainu (lion-dogs) at Mitsumine Shrine. Why are wolves revered as deities in Japan?

The origin of this belief dates back about 300 years to 1720 (Kyoho 5). Nikko Hohin, a monk of that time, was meditating on the summit of Mount Mitsumine when several wolves appeared. Nikko Hohin interpreted these wolves as "messengers of the mountain gods," or "shinshi."

At that time, Japanese wolves inhabited the Chichibu mountains, and they were cherished by the local people as "kenzoku" — family members or attendants of the gods — because they protected crops from wild boars and other animals. This is why they came to be called "O-inu-sama."

You might wonder, "O-inu-sama sounds like a dog, so is it referring to dogs?" However, the "O-inu-sama" here refers not to the dogs we keep as pets, but to the "Japanese wolves" that once inhabited Japan. They were believed to be gods who protected people from thieves, fires, and other disasters.

Nikko Hohin began distributing "wolf amulets," which were believed to ward off fires, robberies, and crop damage, drawing on the power of these wolves. This amulet quickly spread, establishing "Gokenzoku Shinko" (belief in divine attendants) throughout the Kanto region and then across the country.

Sadly, Japanese wolves became extinct during the Meiji era (around the 1880s), but at Mitsumine Shrine, wolf statues modeled after their appearance still greet visitors, and this unique belief continues to be passed down to the present day. This can be said to be a culture symbolizing the Japanese spirit of living in harmony with nature, appreciating its blessings, and sometimes holding it in awe.

Changing Roles and Forms of Worship at Mitsumine Shrine Through the Ages

Throughout its long history, Mitsumine Shrine has adapted its role and the forms of its worship.

A significant turning point was the "Shinbutsu Bunri Rei" (Order to Separate Shinto and Buddhism) issued during the Meiji period. Until then, Japan embraced "Shinbutsu Shugo," a concept where Shinto and Buddhism merged, and many shrines also functioned as temples. Mitsumine-yama was no exception, originally having a strong temple aspect. However, with the Shinbutsu Bunri Rei, the temple was abolished, and it was renamed "Mitsumine Shrine" as a purely Shinto shrine. This might appear novel to international visitors as an example of how Japanese religious views underwent a major transformation.

Later, towards the end of the Taisho period, the shrine's fame grew even further when Prince Chichibu, the younger brother of the later Emperor Showa, visited Mitsumine Shrine. This event led to a rapid increase in followers nationwide, forming the foundation of its current recognition and faith.

Today, Mitsumine Shrine, built upon its historical and religious accumulation, is said to offer a wide range of blessings (goryaku). These include marital harmony, family safety, abundant harvests, protection from fire and theft, warding off various misfortunes, and safe childbirth. Furthermore, since Izanagi no Mikoto and Izanami no Mikoto, enshrined here, are the deities who created Japan, prayers for good fortune, longevity, and bountiful catches are also offered.

Mitsumine Shrine is located at 298-1 Mitsumine, Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, nestled on the slopes of Mount Myohogatake at an altitude of approximately 1,100m. While you can drive there, the mountain roads are steep, so using a shuttle bus or enjoying a hike while experiencing nature are popular options.

Thus, the history of Mitsumine Shrine is like a mirror reflecting the changes in Japanese culture and society, encapsulating the wishes and forms of worship of people throughout different eras.

Unique Culture and Highlights Forged by Mitsumine Shrine's History

The history of Mitsumine Shrine is not just old; it has fostered a unique culture and beliefs. Here, we introduce the cultural background and historical highlights you should know when visiting Mitsumine Shrine.

While Japanese shrines each have distinct characteristics, few might possess an individuality as striking as Mitsumine Shrine. By experiencing its unique culture, you can gain a deeper understanding of Japan's diverse forms of worship.

What is Gokenzoku Shinko? Explaining Mitsumine Shrine's Unique Form of Worship

When you visit Mitsumine Shrine, you'll undoubtedly notice a unique form of worship not seen at other shrines: "Gokenzoku Shinko." The worship of wolves, referred to as "O-inu-sama," as mentioned earlier, is at the heart of this belief.

"Kenzoku" refers to the messengers or attendants of a deity. At Mitsumine Shrine, wolves are believed to be the kenzoku of the gods, conveying people's wishes to the deities and protecting them from calamities. This is one of Japan's ancient ways of thinking, where animals in nature are revered as sacred beings and coexisted with.

What makes Mitsumine Shrine's Gokenzoku Shinko particularly noteworthy is that the Arakawa River upstream region, where Japanese wolves once roamed and where Mitsumine Shrine is located, is considered its origin and central hub. For the people of that time, wolves were reliable protectors of their lives, driving away wild boars that damaged crops. Yet, they also held a sense of awe for their mystical power, leading them to revere wolves as divine messengers.

This belief is not just about worshipping wolves; it's deeply intertwined with specific blessings attributed to wolves, such as "protection from fire and theft" and "warding off various misfortunes," and thus became deeply rooted in many people's lives. Even today, Mitsumine Shrine holds a special ritual called "Gokenzoku Haishaku," where visitors can borrow the power of the shrine's wolf attendants for a year to protect their homes and families.

As an international visitor, you might wonder, "Why is an extinct animal still so cherished?" However, this symbolizes a Japanese spiritual culture where, even if their physical presence is gone, the power of their existence and the awe they inspired are passed down to the present day in a transformed form.

History as a Power Spot: Why So Many People Are Drawn Here

Mitsumine Shrine is known as one of Japan's foremost "power spots." Delving into its history reveals why so many people are drawn to this place and feel a special energy.

Firstly, the very location of Mitsumine Shrine itself holds powerful energy. Situated on the slopes of Mount Myohogatake, at an altitude of approximately 1,100m, it is surrounded by abundant nature. This sacred primeval forest, known as "Chinju no Mori" (the forest protecting the shrine), is filled with pure air, offering deep tranquility and vitality to visitors.

Furthermore, the pristine waters of the Arakawa River upstream, where Japanese wolves once lived, and the magnificent natural scenery of the mountains create an atmosphere truly befitting a "place where gods reside." This natural energy serves as a source that purifies the mind and body of those who visit Mitsumine Shrine, invigorating them.

Moreover, the history of Mitsumine Shrine itself makes this place a power spot. The legend that Yamato Takeru no Mikoto founded it approximately 1,900 years ago and enshrined Izanagi and Izanami, the deities of nation-building, suggests that this place is imbued with a sacred energy connected to fundamental life force.

And the Gokenzoku Shinko, which reveres wolves as divine messengers, also enhances its appeal as a power spot. Wolves have long been revered as guardians of the forest and protectors of human life. It is believed that their strong protective power gives visitors to Mitsumine Shrine a sense of security and the strength to overcome difficulties.

In addition, two sacred trees (goshinboku), estimated to be over 800 years old, stand beside and in front of the main hall (haiden). Especially the cedar goshinboku in front of the haiden, with its overwhelmingly thick trunk, is hailed as the "strongest power spot," and many worshippers touch its trunk to receive power. These goshinboku are living testaments that have watched over the history and faith of this land for centuries, and their very existence radiates powerful energy.

Thus, Mitsumine Shrine attracts many as a power spot not merely for its beautiful scenery, but because the history, faith, and inherent energy of the land itself combine to create a profound effect.

The Evolution and Beauty of Mitsumine Shrine Through Its Historic Buildings

When you visit Mitsumine Shrine, you'll be captivated by the beauty of its magnificent shrine buildings and torii gates. These historic structures tell the story of Mitsumine Shrine's long history and the forms of people's faith throughout different eras.

The current shrine buildings of Mitsumine Shrine were rebuilt in modern times after the temple was abolished by the Shinbutsu Bunri Rei during the Meiji period. Therefore, despite its very old history, the buildings themselves might appear relatively new. However, they embody a unique beauty that fuses ancient traditions with the craftsmanship of artisans from the reconstruction era.

A particular highlight is the haiden (main prayer hall), adorned with vibrant colors. Its carvings and decorations are exquisitely intricate, allowing you to fully appreciate traditional Japanese architectural beauty. This haiden, originally built in the Edo period, has been carefully preserved and repaired since the Meiji era, remaining to this day. The skill of the artisans and the reverence for the deities, imbued in every detail of the shrine, will deeply resonate with visitors.

Furthermore, the torii gate at the entrance of Mitsumine Shrine is unusual, known as a "Mitsutorii" (three-torii gate), differing from typical shrine torii. This is said to symbolize the three peaks of Mitsumine, creating a uniquely sacred atmosphere. Passing through this torii feels like stepping into another world.

Moreover, within the precincts, historical stone monuments and relics that tell the story of the former faith of Mount Mitsumine are scattered. Each of these teaches us about the people who worshipped at Mitsumine Shrine throughout its long history and how they offered their devotion.

What can be felt from Mitsumine Shrine's buildings is not merely their age, but the power of faith passed down through generations and the passion of the people who gave it form. Even reconstructed buildings are underpinned by centuries of history and a deep reverence for the deities.

When visiting Mitsumine Shrine, be sure to pay attention to the intricate details of these buildings. You will surely gain a profound sense of Japan's rich history and culture.

Conclusion: Explore Mitsumine Shrine's History for a Deeper Journey

As we've unraveled the history of Mitsumine Shrine, have you realized that it possesses a profound charm beyond being just a tourist destination? From its founding by Yamato Takeru no Mikoto approximately 1,900 years ago, to its unique Gokenzoku Shinko (wolf worship), and the wishes of people passed down through changing times – all of this makes Mitsumine Shrine a truly unique place.

As an international visitor, you might often wonder, "Why is it in such a remote mountain?" or "A wolf as a god?" However, behind these "mysteries" lies the wisdom of people who have respected and coexisted with Japan's rich nature, and a spiritual culture that continues from the age of myths.

Mitsumine Shrine is not just beautiful; knowing its history allows for a special experience that stimulates your senses and purifies your soul. We hope you enjoy your journey to Mitsumine Shrine, where you can rediscover how what's commonplace in Japan is truly special to the world.

Beyond Mitsumine Shrine, Japan boasts many other hidden power spots. If you're interested in a journey to experience Japan's mystique, please also read our article on [Internal link: Japan's power spot pilgrimage].

References

[1] Chichibu Kanko Navi. Chichibu City Office.[External link: Chichibu Kanko Navi][2] Mitsumine Shrine.[3] Chichibu City Tourism Division.[4] Saitama Prefectural Museum of History and Folklore.[5] Chichibu Regional Omotenashi Tourism Organization.[6] Japanese Gods Encyclopedia.[7] Kanko Keizai Shimbun.[8] Rurubu.com.