Deep within the heart of Oyamazaki, nestled in Kyoto Prefecture, lies the Rikyuu Hachimangu Shrine. A place of quiet reverence, it holds a surprising secret. Rikyuu Hachimangu wasn’t always its name. It started in 860 AD. Emperor Seiwa ordered the enshrinement of the deity Hachiman. This god of war and culture found a new home on the grounds of Emperor Saga’s former detached palace. This connection to royalty led to the name Rikyuu Hachimangu, “rikyuu” meaning detached palace. The shrine isn’t just about emperors and deities. It’s deeply connected to the history of oil in Japan. In the Heian period, a pivotal discovery occurred near Rikyuu Hachimangu. A Shinto priest developed the “nagaki,” a device for extracting oil from egoma seeds. This marked the beginning of egoma oil production in Japan. This oil became essential for lighting Kyoto’s imperial court and shrines. It played a key role in religious ceremonies. During the Muromachi period, egoma oil production flourished. Rikyuu Hachimangu thrived. It became a central hub in the oil trade, holding a monopoly on its sale. The shrine gained immense power. Its influence spread throughout the country. Today, Rikyuu Hachimangu retains its connection to the oil industry. It remains a revered place for those in the oil and fuel businesses. Visitors can even purchase gomae oil, or “goshinden oil,” at the shrine office. A reminder of its rich history. Rikyuu Hachimangu’s story is a blend of imperial connections, ingenious invention, and enduring tradition. It stands as a testament to the surprising role it played in shaping Japan’s cultural and industrial landscape.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to