五ノ神社

Gazing upon Gonogami Shrine, can you sense the whispers of ages past? This ancient shrine, nestled in Hamura City, Tokyo, holds a history as deep as the Maimai-zui Well within its grounds. Gonogami Shrine, also once known as Kumagai Shrine, traces its origins back to 601 AD, during the reign of Emperor Suiko. The shrine’s name, and even the area’s name “Gonogami,” are believed to be derived from the shrine’s connection to the powerful Kumagai clan. They held a grand festival here during the Hōki era (770-780). The main hall you see today, a designated cultural asset of Hamura City, was constructed in 1682. Let’s talk about the enigmatic Maimai-zui Well. It’s located within the shrine grounds, a short walk from Hamura Station. Pictures might not capture its depth, but standing here, you can feel its presence. The well is quite deep. It was excavated to a depth of about two meters. Records indicate repair work was done in 1741, with a restoration in 1838. The original construction, however, is much older. Large stones encircle the well, suggesting its ancient origins. The well’s spiral curb is a beautiful detail, speaking to the craftsmanship of the time. The “Shinpen Musashi Fūdoki Kō” (Newly Compiled Gazetteer of Musashi Province), published around 1800, mentions this well. It was referred to as the “Rasho-no-i” (Spiral Well). The name “Maimai-zui” doesn’t appear in records until the mid-Edo period. Gonogami Shrine offers a unique glimpse into Tokyo’s rich past. It’s a place where history comes alive, inviting us to connect with the spirits and stories of those who came before.