三宅神社

Tucked away on a hillside, Miyake Shrine in Hiroshima holds centuries of stories. It’s a place where the past whispers to the present. Miyake Shrine is managed by Kurumegi Shrine, the main shrine of the area. The deities enshrined here are quite prestigious: Emperor Jinmu, Emperor Chuai, and Empress Jingu. They are accompanied by other important deities like Amaterasu and Okuninushi. Miyake Shrine’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience. Records suggest its origin dates back to 1392. It was rebuilt in 1594 and again in 1787. The current prayer hall and main hall date back to 1865 and 1904. The shrine office was newly built in 1967. Originally located near Minami Sando, Miyake Shrine eventually found its present hilltop location, overlooking the evolving landscape below. The shrine plays a vital role in the community. It is a place of worship for residents seeking blessings for household safety, business prosperity, traffic safety, and successful childbirth. Miyake Shrine’s autumn festival is a highlight. It features a captivating firework display, including traditional “Kaze hi” and “Uchi hi”, and the vibrant “Jyunishin Kagura” dance, a tradition preserved since the Meiji era. This dance, originating from dances performed in other parts of the prefecture, is a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. This dance, along with others like “Kamioroshi”, “Sunahakiki”, “Katana Odori”, “Naginata Odori”, and “Saruta Odori” are performed in rotation by different districts each year. The shrine’s rich past is mirrored in the votive picture horses displayed inside. These images offer a glimpse into history, showcasing everything from mundane scenes of village life to depictions of significant events like the Russo-Japanese War and the bombing of Hiroshima. Even in their faded glory, they speak volumes about the lives and times of those who came before. Miyake Shrine is more than just a place of worship. It is a living testament to the community’s enduring spirit, a place where history, culture, and faith intertwine.