“A lotus field surrounds this sacred space.” Imagine the scene. The path to Oyama-jinja Shrine is lined not with rice paddies but with lotus plants.
Oyama-jinja Shrine stands as a testament to time. This Shinto shrine is located in Machida City Tokyo. Today we will discover its past.
Its exact founding date remains a mystery. Yet, historical records place it as a guardian of the old Shimo-oyamada village during the Edo period. Back then it was called Uchi no Gozen no yashiro.
Local lore connects Oyama-jinja Shrine to the Oyama clan. They are believed to be its founders. “New Compiled Records of Musashi Province” mentions the shrine. It describes it as being in the middle of rice fields. Villagers cherished it as their protector.
The shrine has undergone changes throughout history. In 1871 it was designated as a village shrine. The main deity enshrined here is Amaterasu Omikami.
Interestingly, the shrine has connections to a tragic tale. According to the book ‘Yabegun Hachimangu History’, a woman threw herself into a pond. This happened because of jealousy within the Oyama family. It is said that the shrine was built to appease her vengeful spirit.
Several smaller shrines reside within Oyama-jinja’s grounds. These include Akiba Shrine Shoten Shrine and Tenjin Shrine. Stone pagodas also dot the landscape.
Getting to Oyama-jinja Shrine requires a bit of a walk. The closest stations are JR Yokohama Line, Nagatsuta Station and Odakyu Line, Tsurukawa Station. From either station it is about a 30-minute walk.
The lotus leaves and blossoms make it especially beautiful. Consider visiting when they are in bloom. You will surely not regret it. The serene atmosphere of Oyama-jinja Shrine offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city.