How about stepping back to the year 933? That’s when the story of Sakakiyama Shrine begins. This shrine boasts a history spanning roughly 1100 years. It was brought here from Usa Hachiman Shrine in Kyushu.
Sakakiyama Shrine is located in Kumano Town. Kumano is well-known as a brush production area. The shrine is revered by many both within and outside the town. Its large scale and beautiful architecture make it a prominent landmark.
However, the shrine’s history isn’t without its challenges. A fire in 1715 destroyed treasures and ancient documents. The exact origins of Sakakiyama Shrine are now unknown because of the fire. But the current main hall was rebuilt in 1724. Yoshinaga, the fifth feudal lord, gave permission for this rebuild. It took three years to complete.
The main hall is now designated as an Important Cultural Property of the town. It is a valuable example of early modern temple and shrine architecture. Torii Jinbei, a carpenter, helped construct the shrine. Its design reflects the Nagare-zukuri style. This style is typical of Shimogamo Shrine. It also retains elements of the gorgeous Momoyama culture.
Sakakiyama Shrine is quite large. It is 2.6 times the size of a normal shrine building. This makes it a rare and impressive structure. The farmers of the time bore the huge costs of construction. This shows the financial wealth of Kumano back then.
The tamagaki fence within the temple grounds dates back to 1859. At that time Kumano had many wealthy brush merchants. These merchants often donated to rebuild shrines or repair temples. The construction date of the tamagaki is clear. This makes it a valuable cultural asset. It has been designated as one of the town’s Important Cultural Properties.
Within Sakakiyama Shrine’s grounds, you’ll find other significant sites. There’s the Kumano Hongu Shrine. It was brought from Kumano in Kii Province. Also there are four small shrines. These include Kosuga Shrine and Sakatani Shrine. You can also find Araga Shrine and Doba Inari Daimyojin.
Every year, on the Autumnal Equinox Day, the “Brush Festival” takes place. This event enlivens Kumano Town. A brush memorial service is held at the Brush Mound.
Sakakiyama Shrine continues to be a place of prayer. People come here for disaster prevention and safe childbirth. They also pray for safe travels. Every month on the first day Sakakiyama Shrine holds a monthly festival. It starts at 8 am. You are welcome to participate.