Bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun stands the revered Ushitaki Jizoson. This sacred spot is located along the Nishikoya Kaido Road in Imaichi, Osayama City, Osaka. It sits peacefully between the Fureaibashi and Kami-Mitsuyagawahashi bridges.
Ushitaki Jizoson is more than just a roadside shrine. It holds a special place in the hearts of locals. The Jizo statue within the hall was donated in 1867 by Kichisuke of Hattada Village. This act of devotion has made Ushitaki Jizoson a cherished landmark.
But why is it called Ushitaki Jizoson? The name connects to a unique tradition. On the Day of the Ox during the DoYo period or in an Ox year, people purify themselves in the Mitsuya River. They wash their feet and pray at this Jizo statue. It is believed this ritual prevents skin diseases. Thus, Ushitaki Jizoson became known as the “Foot Washing Jizo.”
Imagine the scene. Locals gather by the Mitsuya River. They carefully wash their feet. Then they offer prayers to the Jizo statue. The gentle flow of the river and the quiet devotion create a serene atmosphere.
The connection to oxen runs deeper. A ritual called “Cow Togi” or “Yosei Ko” takes place here in April. This involves cutting the hooves of cattle. The Ox Jizo Festival is celebrated on the 5th of January, May and September. This tradition stems from ancient beliefs. People revere oxen as sacred beings. Ushitaki Jizoson is a testament to this enduring faith. It is also called “Cow God” or “Ox God.”
The object of worship isn’t just any deity. It is linked to gods like Gozu Tenno and Daweitoku Myoo. But Ushitaki Jizoson stands out. It honors the cow deity. It has preserved shrines dedicated to the Ox God.
As you stand here consider the nearby Owari Slope. It is named after the Owari Gumi. This group of civil engineers from Chita Peninsula, Aichi Prefecture. They worked on the Osayama Pond improvement project.
Long ago, this Jizo Hall was located on the riverbank of the Mitsuya River. During river improvement work, it was moved to its current location. This shows how much the shrine is valued. It was saved from being lost.
Even today locals bring flowers. They offer their prayers. Ushitaki Jizoson remains a beloved place. It embodies the enduring faith of the community. The gentle murmur of the Mitsuya River seems to whisper tales of devotion and healing. Take a moment to appreciate the history and the peacefulness of this sacred spot.