Oyamazumi Jinja

Map

History & Origins

According to tradition it was founded in 594 (the 2nd year of Empress Suiko), and it is also said that the divine spirit had already moved to Omishima ahead of Emperor Jimmu's eastern expedition. Since ancient times it has drawn the faith of sailors as a guardian deity of the Seto Inland Sea, and many warlords, beginning with Minamoto no Yoritomo and Yoshitsune, dedicated helmets and armor. As a result, the treasure hall adjoining the grounds houses many National Treasure and Important Cultural Property arms and armor.

Highlights

The treasure hall on the grounds houses about 400 items of armor and swords designated National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including the armor of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, which is said to reach about 40% of all such designated items in Japan. On the grounds stands the sacred tree 'Great Camphor,' said to be 2,600 years old, with an overwhelming presence. Its location, reachable by crossing the Seto Inland Sea (Shimanami Kaido), is also an appeal.

Visitor Guide

From Imabari Station, take a bus toward Miyaura Port on Omishima (about 1 hour), then walk about 10 minutes from the port. If using the Shimanami Kaido, it is about 15 minutes by car from Omishima IC. Entering the treasure hall requires a separate admission fee, but the arms and armor collection is a must-see.

Best Season

The grand festival on the 22nd day of the fourth lunar month and the rice-planting festival on the 5th day of the fifth lunar month are held on a grand scale. Spring, when the great camphor on the grounds is in fresh green, and autumn, with its mild climate, are good seasons to visit.

Blessings

Annual Events

• Around May (4th lunar month)

  Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)

  The largest festival, held on the 22nd day of the 4th lunar month. Rites are held in thanks to the god of the sea and in prayer for national stability and safe voyages.

• Around June (5th lunar month)

  Otauesai (Rice Planting Festival)

  A rice-planting rite held on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, praying for a rich harvest.

• Around September (8th lunar month)

  Ubusuna Taisai (Ubusuna Grand Festival)

  An autumn grand festival held on the 22nd day of the 8th lunar month, offering thanks to the local tutelary deity.

Travel Plan

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