桜御前神社

Did a mountain god truly intervene in human affairs? We’re standing before Sakuragozen Shrine, or as it’s sometimes called, Yokobari Gozen Jinja. This shrine holds a fascinating tale, echoing with the whispers of a powerful deity and a desperate plea for help. Sakuragozen Shrine rests at the foot of Mount Yokobari, also known as Mount Chausuyama. According to local lore, the mountain god, Oyamatsumi-no-mikoto, once resided on this very peak. Long ago, a terrible disease swept through the Kaneko clan living in Ide. Their faces, once vibrant, became marked by suffering. In their despair, they turned to Oyamatsumi-no-mikoto. They vowed to enshrine his daughter, Konohanasakuya-hime, if only he would alleviate their suffering. The mountain god, moved by their plight, accepted their plea. Konohanasakuya-hime, also known as the deity of Mount Fuji, was then enshrined on Mount Haigashi. The disease miraculously vanished from the Kaneko clan. A peculiar belief sprung forth after this event. It was said that beautiful people would be born in the Ide area. Interestingly, while the shrine was initially called Kokuriya Gozen Jinja, over time, it became Sakuragozen Shrine. The name changed because “sakura,” meaning cherry blossom, was deemed more fitting due to its beauty. The story of Sakuragozen Shrine serves as a poignant reminder of the deep connection between the people of Ide and the divine.