“After I have passed into nirvana I shall appear as a great shining deity.” This utterance connects the deity enshrined here with Buddhist concepts. We are standing before Yachiyo Daimyoujin also known as Hassen Daimyoujin. It is a Shinto shrine located near the Heian bridge resting between two rivers.
Yachiyo Daimyoujin is nestled in a unique spot. It lies on a tongue of land jutting into the Uji River. This specific geographic feature is called Tsurigisaki. It is also known as Kenzaki.
Let’s delve into the history of this shrine. In 1780 during the Edo period this spot was noted in the Miyako Meisho Zue. That is an illustrated guide to the capital.
The main hall of Yachiyo Daimyoujin enshrines Hassen Daimyoujin. A small shrine dedicated to Ko-kitsune and Kiyohime Daimyoujin is on the left. These deities add layers to the sacred ambiance of this place.
Now I will tell you a captivating legend tied to this shrine. A female fox pursued by a hunter sought refuge. She fled from the Inari Mountain. She arrived at the home of a local woman. The fox pleaded for shelter feigning illness to gain entry. The woman hesitated but the fox cleverly adopted the name Hassen.
Villagers gathered at the woman’s home. They sought the fox’s aid through prayers and blessings. Hassen helped cure their ailments. Her pronouncements were accurate. She gained immense respect and reverence.
Officials investigated the happenings at the woman’s home. They found no wrongdoing. The woman’s honesty was evident. An official then ordered the creation of a shrine. It was dedicated to Hassen. This was done to protect the area from flooding. This tale explains the origin and reverence for Hassen Daimyoujin.
Yachiyo Daimyoujin embodies more than just a physical space. It represents a confluence of folklore. It highlights faith. It is a protector of the region. As we conclude our visit take a moment. Reflect on the stories and spirits. They resonate within these grounds.