Dragons decorate the hand-washing basin here at Nagata Shrine. Look closely. Notice how each dragon varies. Some have fierce expressions. Others at Nagata Shrine appear cute. It is details like these that make shrine visits fun.
Welcome to Nagata Shrine in Higashiosaka. It is a Shinto shrine with a rich history. Let’s uncover some of its secrets.
Nagata Shrine is about a five-minute walk from Nagata Station. The station serves the Osaka Metro Chuo Line and the Kintetsu Keihanna Line. As you approach Nagata Shrine, you will see a wooden torii gate. It marks the entrance to the sacred grounds. The green foliage contrasts beautifully with the aged wood.
Passing through the torii gate, observe the hand-washing basin on your right. This basin features a dragon motif, which is common in shrines across Japan. But there is something special about the dragons here at Nagata Shrine. Each one has a unique expression. Some look stern, while others seem almost gentle. These subtle differences add to the shrine’s charm.
Also notice the five Obon lanterns that remain in the village of Nagata. Two of these lanterns are within the Nagata Shrine grounds. These lanterns commemorate the Obon pilgrimage. During the Edo period, groups made the journey to Ise Shrine every 60 years.
The enshrined deities at Nagata Shrine are equally fascinating. They include: Homutawake no Mikoto also known as Emperor Ojin the 15th emperor and Okinagatarashihime no Mikoto. She was Emperor Ojin’s mother, Empress Jingu. Also Takiribime no Mikoto. She is one of the Munakata Sanjojin.
Before the main hall is the haiden. The haiden is the worship hall. The komainu or guardian dogs stand before it. Their crystal eyes are quite lovely.
Behind the haiden, you will find the main hall. It is an impressive structure with copper-plate roofing.
To the left of the haiden are two auxiliary shrines. One is Hachiman Shrine. It enshrines Hachiman-Biko no Mikoto and Hachiman-Hime no Mikoto. The other is Ryuo Myojin Shrine. It enshrines Tatara.
To the right of the haiden are also two auxiliary shrines. One is Inari Shrine. It enshrines Ukanomitama no Okami. The other is a joint shrine for Kotohira Shrine, Suijin Shrine and A宕 Shrine.
Also within the Nagata Shrine grounds is Niguromochi. It is a hall of the Aijizo. While I could not take a photo of it, I invite you to see it.
Nagata Shrine is also home to a wooden statue of Jizo Bosatsu. The statue dates back to the late Kamakura period. It is designated as a tangible cultural property of Higashiosaka City.
The shrine may have been established by a clan descended from immigrants. These immigrants came from the Kingdom of Baekje.
Take your time to explore Nagata Shrine. The quiet atmosphere and sunlight filtering through the trees create a peaceful experience. As you leave, remember the dragons. Remember the lanterns. Remember the history. Nagata Shrine offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s cultural heritage. Why not come and explore it yourself?