“Is that tree talking to us?” Let me tell you about the fascinating history of the Niijuku Hachimangu. It is a Shinto shrine cherished as the local guardian deity of Niijuku. According to the “Chikuzen no Kuni Zoku Fudoki Furoku,” the enshrined deities are Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu, and Tamaorihime no Mikoto.
Niijuku Hachimangu has a remarkable story to tell. The shrine’s grounds feature a large ginkgo tree. It is known as the “sacred tree.” A famous anecdote is linked to the battles of Iwatsuki Castle. They occurred during the Tensho era from 1573 to 1592.
During the attack on Takahashi Shigetane by the Shimazu forces. The Shimazu troops advanced into Niijuku. They attempted to cut down the large ginkgo tree at Niijuku Hachimangu. An old woman from Hyakusho Kurouemon’s family rushed to the scene. She pleaded, “This is the village’s guardian deity. If you cut it down, you will be punished by the gods. If you must cut it down, cut me down first.” She embraced the tree trunk.
Astonished by the old woman’s impassioned plea, the Shimazu forces relented. They put down their axes. They left the tree standing. Over 400 years have passed since that incident. The large ginkgo tree has aged. It has weathered typhoon damage. Yet, it still retains its beautiful form. It is designated as a natural monument by Chikushino City.
Niijuku Hachimangu is also associated with good fortune. People visit to pray for various blessings. Fukuoka Prefecture has many “fortune” spots. These include shrines with unique histories. There are also temples offering diverse benefits. Fukuoka, as the gateway to Asia, boasts historical sites. Ancient ruins filled with historical romance are also popular.
Since its foundation, Niijuku Hachimangu has stood for over 1400 years. The shrine was re-established by Kuroda Tadayuki. He enshrined the spirit of Usa Hachimangu. Old documents from 1473 refer to it as “Niijuku’s Usa Hachiman.” The sacred ginkgo tree protects against heavenly soldiers. It is revered as a guardian against disasters.
Niijuku Hachimangu is dedicated to marriage, safe childbirth, domestic safety, and good fortune. The ginkgo nuts offered here are believed to ward off evil. During the battle of Iwatsuki Castle in 1586, the Shimazu forces attacked. They intended to destroy the ginkgo tree. An elderly woman bravely defended it.
Today, you can still see the marks from that attempted felling. Locals share this tale. It serves as a reminder of the shrine’s history. The Niijuku Hachimangu and its sacred tree stand as symbols of resilience. They embody community spirit. Remember the tale of the old woman. Her courage saved this sacred tree.