Musashi Mitake Jinja

Map

History & Origins

Its founding is said to date from the 7th year of Emperor Sujin's reign, giving it a history of more than 2,000 years. It was deeply revered by warlords, and Minamoto no Yoritomo and Tokugawa Ieyasu are said to have worshipped here. In the Edo period the 'Mitake-ko' confraternities spread across the country, and it flourished as a sacred site visited by many pilgrims.

Highlights

Around the main hall at the summit, a village of pilgrim lodgings forms the settlement at the shrine gate, preserving an old atmosphere of mountain worship. The 'Oinu-sama' talismans remain popular as protective charms against evil. The grounds offer a panoramic view of the Okutama mountains, and the area is also a favored base for hiking.

Visitor Guide

From Mitake Station on the JR Ome Line, take a bus to the Cable-shita stop, then ride the Mitake Tozan Railway (cable car) from Takimoto Station to Mitakesan Station, about 6 minutes. From the mountaintop station, the main hall is about a 25-minute walk.

Best Season

The colony of Rengeshoma flowers in spring (April-May) and the autumn foliage (October-November) are magnificent. At the end of September, when the Yabusame festival is held, you can enjoy both the sacred rites and nature at the same time.

Blessings

Annual Events

• May

  Reitaisai and Hinode Sai (Grand Annual Festival and Sunrise Festival)

  The largest annual festival of the year, held on May 7–8. Portable shrine processions and Daidai Kagura are offered.

• September

  Yabusame Sai (Horseback Archery Festival)

  A traditional yabusame ritual held on September 29. A spirited ritual in which targets are shot from horseback.

Travel Plan

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