“What does it mean to find safety?” Consider that question as we stand before the \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e. This shrine offers solace and blessings to all who seek them.
The \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e stands as a beacon. It protects the well-being of families and seafarers. It also ensures traffic safety and brings good fortune. People come here to ward off evil, prevent disasters, ensure safe childbirth, and boost business prosperity.
Legend says the \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e’s origins trace back to the Nara period. In 743, the deity Sumiyoshi Myojin appeared. The following year, the deity reappeared during prayers for the retreat of foreign ships. Moved by this, locals built a small shrine to honor the Sumiyoshi Sanjin.
Later in 1416, divine guidance led to a new shrine. On the 29th day of August, they completed the construction and dedication ceremony at the site of the Gozutensha. The Sumiyoshi Sanjin were then enshrined alongside the Gozutensha. They were revered as local guardian deities.
The Sumiyoshi Sanjin are mentioned in the Nihon Shoki. Izanagi-no-Mikoto father of the Sumiyoshi Sanjin was purifying himself. He was at Awagihara in Tachibana. This happened after returning from the land of Yomi. These deities were born during this purification.
The \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e also enshrines other deities. They include Empress Jingu, Shiga Sanjin, and Takenouchi no Sukune.
Look for the sacred tree. It is a ginkgo tree. This tree is about 700 years old. Legend says it acted as a lightning rod. It protected the main hall when lightning struck long ago.
Also, note the Kappa mask. Tradition says Izanagi-no-Mikoto was purifying himself when a Kappa appeared. The Kappa assisted with local guidance. It became a messenger of the gods for disaster prevention and good fortune. The \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e gives out Kappa masks. These masks promote traffic safety, good luck, and protection. They also ensure domestic tranquility, family harmony, health, fertility, and safe childbirth.
The main hall before you is the largest building here. Many people come to the \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e to pay their respects.
As you leave the \u59ea\u6d5c\u4f4f\u5409\u795e\u793e may its blessings accompany you. May you find safety, fortune, and peace in your journey.