Once upon a time, the area around \u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e was called Hakkeizaka. It was a famous scenic spot. Now let’s step back in time and explore this spiritual haven.
\u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e stands near Oomori station. More precisely it is near the west exit. This location has been a place of worship for centuries.
The shrine’s exact founding date is unknown. It is said that in the Edo period it was called Shinmeisha. Villagers established the shrine between 1716 and 1736. They formed an Iseko. This group was a pilgrimage society. They journeyed to Ise Grand Shrine. There they received a divided spirit to enshrine back here at \u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e.
The shrine is also called Shinmeiyama Tensojinja. It is perched atop a steep stone staircase. Once this entire area was known as Hakkeizaka. Utagawa Hiroshige even captured its beauty in his ukiyo-e prints.
The steep stone steps are called Otoko-zaka. A gentle slope called Onna-zaka also exists. It was renovated as “Magome literary village path”. Now it serves as a local passage for residents.
\u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e enshrines Amaterasu Omikami. This makes it connected to the Ise Grand Shrine. You can also find Hachikengyo. This is one of the three sacred treasures.
In 1830 the “Shinpen Musashi Fudoki Ko” documented the shrine. It described Shinmeisha located on Hakkeizaka. The document also mentioned two torii gates. They stood halfway up the mountain.
Hakkeizaka was famous for its views. It was a well known spot outside Edo. People could see as far as the Boso Peninsula.
The name Hakkeizaka comes from eight scenic views. These views included distant landmarks. One such landmark was the coast of Oomori.
A large pine tree once stood on Hakkeizaka. It was known as Tsunakake no Matsu. Legend says Minamoto no Yoshiie tied his horse there in 1189. The third generation of this pine fell in 1917 due to a typhoon. Today only its stump remains.
In 1884, the area behind the \u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e became Hakkei Garden. This garden was a popular amusement park. It was later divided into residential areas.
The Meiji era brought separation of Shinto and Buddhism. In 1872, \u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e separated from Ennoji Temple. It was renamed Shinmeiyama Tensojinja.
Strolling through the grounds today you will find guardian dogs. These komainu are unique. Both hold puppies symbolizing safe birth.
Also note the couple’s tree. It is about 300 years old. It is called Meoto-enoki. It symbolizes marital harmony.
\u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e continues to be cherished. It is a guardian shrine. It connects the present to its scenic past. The shrine also offers unique Goshuin. The current priest has designed them. These stamps depict local history. The chief priest will gladly explain the history and meaning of the goshuin.
As you leave \u516b\u666f\u5929\u7956\u795e\u793e remember its layers of history. Its views have inspired artists. Its grounds have comforted locals for centuries.