“Nourishment.” That is what the name Kamojinja subtly implies. We stand before Kamojinja in Fukuoka. It is a place of ancient roots and enduring traditions. Kamojinja, also known as Kamo Shrine, is a Shinto shrine with connections to Kyoto.
The shrine’s origins are tied to the Kamowakeikazuchi Shrine and Kamomioya Shrine in Kyoto. These shrines are collectively known as the Kamo Shrines. Local lore says that Kamojinja enshrines the deity Onamazu. Legend says that during a famine in the Edo period villagers prayed. They asked that disaster not strike twice. Onamazu appeared in a dream. The deity told them not to kill and eat Onamazu.
Kamojinja is dedicated to several deities. These include Kamowakeikazuchi, Tamayorihime-no-mikoto and Amenokoyane. Within the grounds, other deities are venerated. These include the Sixteenth Day God, the Water God, and others.
Though the exact year of its founding is unclear, Kamojinja has a long history. Archaeological finds suggest it existed as early as the Heian period. Tiles from that era have been excavated on the grounds.
The people of Kamo revered their land. They focused on rice and wheat production. Sericulture thrived from the Meiji era to the early Showa era. Silkworm farming became a key part of the local economy.
Kamojinja hosts several annual festivals and ceremonies. New Year’s Day sees the celebration of the New Year Festival. In April, the Five Grain Rich Harvest Prayer Festival is held. The Sixteen Day God Festival also takes place in April. July brings the Summer Festival. This includes a ritual to ward off insects. The Thousand Light Festival happens in September. In October, there is the Auspicious Oaroshi Festival. Finally, the New Harvest Thanksgiving Festival is celebrated in December.
One notable event is the Thousand Light Festival on September 15th. Many small dishes filled with rapeseed oil are arranged. Thousands of lights illuminate the shrine. People pray for good health and protection from disasters. The flickering lights create a mystical atmosphere.
Kamojinja is also known for the Chinowa ritual. This takes place around June. A large ring made of thatch is installed. Participants pass through the ring to purify themselves. This removes sins and misfortunes. They pray for a cleansed mind and body.
In 2016, a rare heavy snowfall blanketed Fukuoka. The snow-covered Kamojinja created a unique and beautiful scene.
Today, Kamojinja continues to be a place of worship and community. It is a testament to the enduring traditions of Fukuoka. It is a place where the past and present intertwine.