Curious about a place where wind and water meet? Welcome to Jodono Shrine. This Shinto shrine resides in Tokyo’s Nishitokyo City. It is a place of tranquility. Let’s uncover the history of Jodono Shrine.
Jodono Shrine has ancient roots. Once called Jodono Gongen it served as the guardian shrine for Kami-hoya village. Legend says Jodono Gongen was initially on Mt. Miya. This is near present-day Nishitokyo City. It was thought to be part of Kami-hoya.
In 1622 the shrine was divided. A part went to Kami-hoya’s Jodono. In 1646 another part went to Tanashi’s Jodono. This is now Tanashi Shrine.
An interesting detail emerges. The old deity of Jodono is Fudo Myo-o. It is now housed in Kakushin-in. This deity is associated with water. The enshrined deity Shinatobe-no-Mikoto is associated with wind. It is believed the shrine honored gods suitable to the local climate.
A pair of stone lanterns marks the shrine. These lanterns are designated cultural assets of Nishitokyo City. They were donated in 1682. The inscription reads “Kami-hoya Village Ujiko”. This shows the whole village was under the shrine’s protection.
There is also a wooden statue of Fudo Myo-o. It was created in the early Edo period. During the separation of Shinto and Buddhism in 1868 its worship was banned. The statue was preserved by local people. It is now housed in Kakushin-in.
As you approach Jodono Shrine notice the guardian dogs at the entrance. They stand as silent protectors. Consider the history etched into the stone lanterns. They have stood here for centuries. Think about the villagers who prayed here. They sought protection from the harsh elements. Jodono Shrine is a testament to their faith. It is a place where wind and water intertwine. The shrine serves as a reminder of the past.