Hidden among the houses of Hoshida is Hoshida Jinja. This Shinto shrine holds secrets. Its history is partially shrouded in mystery. Local lore speaks of a giant tree. This tree once stood where the shrine now stands. It was considered sacred. It housed the spirit of Koyo no Hikari Himiko. This was the local deity of the area.
Hoshida Jinja’s main deities are Okutsu Mikoto Nakutsu Mikoto and Uetsu Mikoto. There is also a God of Merit. The exact founding date of Hoshida Jinja is unknown. However local traditions suggest a much earlier existence. Before the current shrine building existed. A large tree served as the shrine’s focus. This immense tree was eventually destroyed. The shrine uses wood from the original tree. It is used as a sacred material in the present structure.
Historical records offer intriguing glimpses. In 1535 Tenbun 4. A document called Shingyo-sho. Mentions a Koyo Daijo Jinja. This refers to the great Koyo shrine. This further suggests the shrine’s long history. Another record mentions a stone statue. It was built in 1366. This is further evidence of the shrine’s age.
During the Edo period major changes occurred. The shrine received the four deities enshrined today. This happened during the Kyoho era 1716 to 1736. These deities were transferred from a larger shrine. This shrine was known as Funabiki Jinja. The existing structure of Hoshida Jinja was built around that time. The Koyo Daijo Jinja became known as the old shrine. The four deities are now revered as the local spirits of Hoshida.
Today Hoshida Jinja remains a place of reverence. It is an integral part of the community. It is a testament to the enduring power of tradition. The shrine stands as a silent witness. It has witnessed centuries of change and devotion. Visit Hoshida Jinja and feel the weight of history. Feel the presence of the spirits. Feel the peaceful energy. It is a spiritual journey into the heart of Osaka.