“Grave misfortune is waiting for someone who dares to steal a deity’s sword.” Are you intrigued? This is \u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e. It stands as a testament to Osaka’s rich spiritual history. This Shinto shrine has roots stretching back centuries.
\u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e is not just a place of worship. It is a repository of legends and traditions.
Let me tell you a story from 668 AD. A monk named Dogyo from Silla stole the sacred Kusanagi sword from Atsuta Shrine. He tried to flee by ship to Silla. A fierce storm struck. Dogyo believed it was divine punishment. Overcome with fear, he cast the sword into the river. The villagers retrieved the sword. They enshrined it temporarily at \u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e. The Kusanagi sword eventually returned to Atsuta Shrine.
\u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e was once known as Hachiken Shrine during the Edo period. In a bid to align with ancient records, it was identified as the true Achi Hayao Shrine listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho. Thus the name changed to \u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e. A stone marker was erected to mark this recognition.
The main deity enshrined here is Achi Hayao Takahi Musubi no Kami. Legend says that this deity descended to Tsutsukushi. He cultivated the land. He taught the people agriculture. He became the guardian of this region.
Note the two pairs of komainu or guardian dogs before you. The older pair dates back to 1820. The other pair was dedicated in 1968. This was during the 1300th anniversary of the Kusanagi sword incident.
Take a closer look at the Chozuya. It is a hand-washing station. You will see a large kusunoki tree. It is estimated to be 1000 years old. This tree is designated as a natural monument of Osaka. Lightning once damaged it. Thanks to a tree doctor, its branches still thrive.
Notice the small pond to the north. This is the Katatsubata Pond. Legend says Emperor Nintoku fell ill. Achi Hayao Okami appeared in his dream. The deity instructed him to offer irises from a pond east of the palace. The Emperor followed these instructions. His illness miraculously cured.
Also explore the various auxiliary shrines near the main hall. These include Amaterasu Omikami Shrine, Daikokuten Shrine and Kotoshironushi Shrine.
Every year on July 22nd, representatives from Atsuta Shrine visit \u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e. On June 5th, representatives from \u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e visit Atsuta Shrine. This tradition highlights the enduring connection between the two shrines.
Before we leave, observe the Otonashi Toro lantern. This lantern was built in 1868. It commemorates the Ise Grand Shrine pilgrimage. It is the only remaining Otonashi lantern in Osaka City.
\u963f\u9045\u901f\u9045\u795e\u793e is a sanctuary. It connects us to Osaka’s ancient past. The shrine’s story is a tapestry woven with mythology. It embodies local traditions.