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Isonokami Jingu, in Tenri City, Nara Prefecture, is a prestigious shrine known as one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Its principal deity, Futsunomitama Okami, is said to be the divine spirit dwelling in the sacred sword Futsunomitama-no-Tsurugi, which Emperor Jimmu is said to have used during his eastern expedition. The sight of chickens roaming freely on the grounds is beloved by worshippers, and the shrine is also called the 'Chicken Shrine.'
Shrine Info
- Enshrined Deity
- Futsunomitama no Okami
- Founded
- Said to date from Sujin 7
- Annual Festival
- Reisai and Furu Matsuri (October); Shinken Togyo-sai (June)
History & Origins
According to tradition it was founded in the 7th year of Emperor Sujin, and as the chief shrine of the Mononobe clan it also held the nation's foremost arsenal. The seven-branched sword (Shichishito), designated a National Treasure, is an unusual sword with six branch blades and a double-edged blade, said to have been presented from Baekje and estimated to have been made around the 4th century. Several Important Cultural Properties, including the worship hall and auxiliary shrines, also remain on the grounds.
Highlights
The seven-branched sword preserved as a sacred treasure is designated a National Treasure and is a precious relic of ancient exchange between Japan and Korea. The 'Shinken Togyosai (Den-den Festival)' on June 30 draws attention as a ritual connected with the seven-branched sword. The worship hall, built in the late Heian period, is designated an Important Cultural Property, and the sight of the sacred chickens gathering there is unique to Isonokami Jingu.
Visitor Guide
About a 30-minute walk from Tenri Station on the Kintetsu Tenri Line, or route buses are also available from in front of Tenri Station. It is also within walking distance of Nagara Station on the JR Sakurai Line. Tenri City has many cultural facilities, such as the Tenri University Sankokan Museum, and visiting them together makes for a fulfilling time.
Best Season
The annual festival on October 15, the 'Furu Matsuri,' is the busiest of the year. Early-morning worship in the stillness is also popular, and the magical sight of sacred chickens walking the grounds can be enjoyed in any season.
Annual Events
- June
Shinken Togyosai (Dendenmatsuri, Divine Sword Procession Festival)
A rite held on June 30. It is a festival associated with the Seven-Branched Sword, a National Treasure, and is held together with the Nagoshi no Oharae.
- October
Reisai (Furu Matsuri, Annual Festival)
The largest festival of the year, held on October 15. Rites in the ancient style are performed solemnly.
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