Hodosan Jinja
Map
Hodosan Jinja stands at the foot of Mt. Hodo (497 m) in Nagatoro, Chichibu District, Saitama Prefecture, and is one of the Chichibu Sansha. It enshrines Homusubi no Kami, the god of fire, and is worshipped as a deity of fire prevention. Venerable sacred trees stand in the grounds, and many worshippers visit, together with the inner shrine at the summit.
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Kamuyamato Iwarebiko no Mikoto (Emperor Jimmu); Oyamatsumi no Kami; Homusubi no Kami
- Founded
- Keiko 11 (111 CE, tradition)
- Annual Festival
- Reitaisai (April); Okumiya Taisai (May)
History & Origins
Its founding is said to date from the 11th year of Emperor Keiko's reign (111 CE), when Yamato Takeru climbed the mountain during his eastern campaign. The myth that a bear guided him and put out a mountain fire is said to be the origin of the fire-prevention faith. It was awarded one star in the 2011 Michelin Green Guide Japon.
Highlights
The beautiful vermilion-lacquered main hall is known for the fineness of its carvings. The 'Matchmaking Pines' (a male and female pine) in the grounds are popular for their blessings of success in love. Its good location lets you also visit the nearby Nagatoro Iwadatami rock terraces and gorge.
Visitor Guide
It is about a 10-minute walk from Nagatoro Station on the Chichibu Railway. By the Hodosan Ropeway, the inner shrine can be reached in about 5 minutes (about 50 minutes on foot). It is common to visit together with sightseeing in Nagatoro.
Best Season
In the winter sweet (robai) season from late February to March, the grounds are tinted yellow and can be enjoyed with their fragrance. Combining it with the cherry blossoms in April makes a spring visit recommended.
Annual Events
- April
Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)
The largest festival of the year, held on April 3. Kagura and portable shrine processions are held.
- May
Okumiya Taisai (Inner Shrine Grand Festival)
A festival held on May 2 at the Okumiya at the summit of Hodosan. It is a ritual connected with Yamato Takeru no Mikoto.
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