“Why is there a Shinto shrine within a Buddhist temple?” you might ask. That is an intriguing question as we stand before Ōno Tenmangū.
Ōno Tenmangū is a Shinto shrine. It is located within the grounds of Honkōji Temple. Honkōji is a Nichiren Buddhist temple in Ichikawa.
Let’s delve into its history. Legend says that Taira no Masakado invited the Kitano Tenmangū of Kyoto to this place in 938. Sugawara no Michizane is enshrined here. A hanging scroll depicts Sugawara no Michizane. It records the shrine’s origins. It also mentions that Nichiren Shōnin consecrated it.
Sugawara no Michizane was an important person. He rose to the high rank of Minister of the Right. However due to false accusations he was demoted. He was sent to Dazaifu in Kyushu. He died there in despair.
After his death Kyoto suffered many disasters. People feared Michizane’s spirit was angry. To appease him he was deified as Tenman Daijizaiten. He was enshrined in Tenmangū shrines.
Michizane was also a scholar. He became known as the god of learning. Many students pray for success in exams here. It is believed that buying a writing brush after praying brings good luck.
There are many famous Tenmangū shrines. These include Dazaifu Tenmangū and Kitano Tenmangū. Ōno Tenmangū is a notable shrine in Chiba Prefecture.
Near Honkōji Temple once was a school. It opened in Honkōji Temple in 1874. It shows that Ōno Tenmangū has watched over education in Ichikawa.
If you are worried about exams tell your worries to Ōno Tenmangū. If you calm your heart you can bring out your power. With the protection of Ōno Tenmangū you can achieve your goals.
The 25th of every month is a special day. It is said that wishes made on this day come true. It is a day for good fortune.
Before entering cleanse your hands. There is a tea room for this purpose. After cleansing proceed to the main hall. Offer incense and pray. You can also receive charms here. May your visit to Ōno Tenmangū bring you knowledge and peace.