User:Immanuelle/Ōagata Shrine

Immanuelle/Ōagata Shrine
Immanuelle/Ōagata Shrine
	Hime no Miya and Umezono
Religion
Deity	Oarata-no-mikoto (大荒田命); Tamahime-no-Mikoto (Hime no MIya)
Website
	http://kikuko-nagoya.com/html/ooagata-shrine.html

Merge this content to the proper page simple:Ōagata Shrine and fix simple:User:Immanuelle/Tsurugi Shrine too and simple:User:Immanuelle/Sugōisobe Shrine

This is a draft being worked on by Immanuelle. It may be too complex at the moment but she wants to get it ready to be an article someday. Others are free to edit it
This page was last edited by Immanuelle (talk | contribs) 5 months ago.

Ōagata Shrine (大縣神社) is a Shinto shrine located in Inuyama, Aichi, Japan.^[1]^[2]^[3] It was recorded in the Engishiki Jinmyocho as a Myojin Taisha. It is the Ninomiya or second ranked shrine of Owari Province. It is a Beppyo shrine.

It is located next to Tagata Shrine. A shrine famous for its Harvest Festival Hōnensai, or the penis festival held annually on March 15.^[4]^[5]

It has a vagina festival on May 14th. Their festival is more subdued.^[6]^[3]

They demonstrate religious traditions that starkly contrast with the conventional Western views, on sexuality. With the Tagata Shrine it is renowned for hosting festivals that prominently showcase sexual symbols showcasing Japans open and accepting attitude towards sexual themes.^[3]

Overview

torii gate

It is the Ninomiya, or a second ranked shrine in Owari Province^[1], ranked below Masumida Shrine [en]..^[7]

It is located close to Tagata Shrine the shrine famous for hosting Hōnensai. Oagata shrine has a similar yonic festival the Sunday before this festival^[2]

Aotsuka Kofun is located on the grounds of the shrine, 3.5 kilometers to the west of the honden.^[1]

The shrine claims that the kofun is the grave of its kami, Oarata-no-mikoto (大荒田命). During the Sengoku period, the tumulus was fortified as a castle by the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the 1584 Battle of Komaki and Nagakute [en].^[1]

The annual Good Harvest Festival, also known as the Hime no Miya Hōnen Festival is celebrated at Ōagata Shrine, in Inuyama, Aichi, Japan. This special event occurs on nearest Sunday to March 15th each year. Is well known for its emphasis on fertility and prosperity especially representing symbolism. It serves as a celebration to the Good Harvest Festival at Tagata Shrine creating an observance of fertility with both male and female representations.^[8]^[9]

The Oagata Shrine, situated in the Owari region holds importance as a Shinto shrine dedicated to Oagata no okami a deity revered for cultivating the Owari area. Known as the prominent shrine, in Owari, Oagata no okami is highly respected as a protective guardian bringing prosperity to businesses and safeguarding against misfortune.^[10]

The Oagata Shrine, located in Inuyama City, within Aichi Prefecture symbolizes Japans traditions by blending ancient customs with modern practices. It is renowned for its festivals that honor fertility and the equilibrium of female energies. Deeply rooted in spirituality this shrine complements the Tagata Shrine creating a celebration of fertility through their annual events.^[11]^{: 331–353}

With its history, stunning architecture and distinctive cultural celebrations Oagata Shrine continues to play a role, in Japans spiritual and cultural landscape.^[11]^{: 331–353}

The festivals held at the Oagata Shrine honor the elements of life, fertility and the balance, between female energies. These traditions not uphold Japans heritage but also provide a glimpse into how celebrations have adapted to modern times. The shrines longstanding significance symbolizes the enduring link, between people and spirituality connecting present and future generations.^[11]^{: 331–353}

The Ōagata Shrine stands out as a known Shinto shrine situated in Inuyama, Aichi, Japan, Japan. It pays homage to the revered deity Ōagata oomikami, who is hailed as the trailblazer of the Owari region and a symbol of prosperity and good luck, in business endeavors. Locally referred to as Ninomiya meaning "the shrine " this sacred place holds significance for the community.^[12]

Deity and Importance

At the heart of Ōagata Shrine lies Ōagata oomikami, honored for their pioneering contributions to Owari and association with prosperity. The shrine serves as a cultural hub in the area drawing visitors seeking blessings for success in business ventures.^[12]

The shrine claims that the kofun is the grave of its kami, Oarata-no-mikoto (大荒田命). During the Sengoku period, the tumulus was fortified as a castle by the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi during the 1584 Battle of Komaki and Nagakute [en].^[1]

Enshrining Oagata no okami carries a legacy. Legend has it that the deity was initially enshrined on Mt. Hongu overlooking the Nobi Plain. In a relocation event dating back to 3 BCE, Oagata no okami was transferred to its shrine location solidifying its significance in the local religious context.^[10]

Dedicated to Oagata no okami a deity associated with the development of the Owari region the Oagata Shrine holds a place as Owaris shrine. It serves as a space where worshippers seek blessings for prosperity and protection from adversity. The shrines history is highlighted by its relocation to its location in 3 BCE from Mt. Hongu showcasing its enduring importance in the communitys beliefs, throughout history.^[11]^{: 331–353}

Description

Hime no Miya and Umezono

A plum orchard made on a slope.

There are many small shrines within the precincts of Ogata Shrine. In the past, there used to be two Betsugu shrines and 52 subordinate shrines. One of these shrines, called Hime no Miya, is dedicated to Tamahime no Mikoto (although some people believe it is dedicated to Kurinama no kami). Since ancient times, this shrine has been worshipped as a guardian deity for safe childbirth. This is related to the phallus-shaped object at Tagata Shrine in Komaki City. At the top of Mt. Hongu, there is Hongu Shrine, which is dedicated to the Aramitama of Oogata no Okami.

The building of the Ogata Shrine is known as 'Ogata-zukuri' and was constructed in 1661 by Mitsutomo Tokugawa [en], ruled the Owari Domain [en] succeeding his father. ^[13]

In addition to the shrine itself, Ogata Shrine also oversees the Aotsuka Kofun, which is the second largest Zenpokoenfun [en] mound in Aichi Prefecture. The surrounding area is also filled with ancient burial mounds, including round burial mounds.

On the slope of the mountain behind the shrine's grounds, there are approximately 300 weeping plum trees.

Architectural Style

The Oagata Shrine holds a place, in the hearts of the people not as a symbol of history and architectural beauty but also as a source of spiritual guidance for those seeking prosperity and protection. Its popularity among both locals and visitors from places highlights its importance as an spiritual hub. By honoring Oagata no okami the shrine maintains its role in the community fostering a connection to tradition and heritage.^[10]

In essence the Oagata Shrine stands as a landmark that bridges the gap between past and present embodying both the legacy and architectural excellence of the Owari region. Its enduring relevance and the devotion it inspires reflect the impact of Shinto practices, on Japans cultural and religious tapestry.^[10]

1661 restoration

In 1661 Tokugawa Mitsutomo, the lord of the Owari Tokugawa Clan (rulers of the Owari domain and a cadet branch of the Tokugawa clan, not to be confused with the Owari clan associated with Atsuta Shrine) oversaw the reconstruction of the shrine using Santoh zukuri or Ōagata zukuri architectural style. This distinctive construction method is deemed a asset nationally and showcases the unique Owari zukuri architectural heritage. The shrine premises maintain a representation of Owari zukuri aesthetics adding to its cultural significance.^[12]

It uses Owari-zukuri [en] architecture.^[14]

The shrines existing hall meticulously restored in 1661 by Tokugawa Mitsutomo, the lord of the Owari Domain stands as a testament to the enduring traditions of the Owari region. This restoration work preserved the Owari zukuri building style now esteemed for its historical value. Recognized for its significance and contribution, to Japans heritage the shrine received national recognition as an important cultural property in 1981.^[10]

Following a restoration led by Tokugawa Mitsutomo in 1661 the shrine boasts architecture reflecting the Owari zukuri construction style.Being recognized as a treasure in 1981 highlights the architectural and historical importance of the shrine preserving a crucial aspect of Japans rich cultural heritage.^[11]^{: 331–353}

Attractions and Special Sites

The Haiden, known as the Hall of Worship leads to the Honden the shrine recognized as a cultural asset. The shrine grounds also feature an "ema”, for couples seeking blessings for fertility.^[12]

Himeishi

The Lady Stone. Hime ishi^[12]

One striking element at the shrine is the Hime ishi, a stone resembling anatomy located near the Hime no miya shrine. This stone, along with yang stones, at Tagata Shrine collectively known as "in'yoh seki" or yin and yang stones represents fertility and creation.^[12]

Plum Trees and Hime no miya Shrine^[12]

Jingu Yohaijo, or remote worship site for Ise Grand Shrine

Surrounded by plum trees the shrine creates a tranquil and scenic atmosphere. Within its premises stands the Hime no miya Shrine dedicated to goddess Tamahime no mikoto. Visitors frequent this site to pray for childbirth, fertility, harmonious relationships and marital bliss.^[12]

Yama uba Shrine at the top of the mountain

Festival

The Hime no Miya Festival, which takes place around the time, as the fertility focused festivities at Tagata Shrine demonstrates the shrines commitment to fertility by honoring both female aspects. This festival, featuring processions and symbols depicting genitalia underscores the shrines connection to the cycles of life and abundance.^[11]^{: 331–353}

The Oagata Shrine festival is sometimes called the Yin Festival, juxaposing it with the Yanf Festival at Tagata Shrine. This is because Oagata Shrine celebrates female fertility (yin) and Tagata Shrine celebrates male fertility (yang).^[8]^[9]

The festivities include rituals involving rocks symbolizing anatomy and a procession showcasing a palanquin (mi koshi) designed to resemble female genitalia. Alongside this palanquin visitors can witness banners (nobori) and adorned horses parading around the shrine grounds.^[8]^[9]

A distinctive feature of this festival is the tradition of tossing luck mochi from a palanquin carrying a massive clam. Attendees eagerly gather near the shrine hall to catch these items and other treasures hanging from the sakaki tree.^[8]^[9]

These artifacts are believed to possess powers offering blessings for safe childbirth prosperous marriages and contentment, in marital unions. ^[8]^[9]

The Rich Harvest Festival at Ōagata Shrine—also known as Hohnen sai—takes place annually in March. Holds a place, within the local community.^[12]

The Tagata Shrine Rich Harvest Festival complements the essence of fertility and abundance symbolizing values through rituals and festivities that attract visitors from all corners of the region.^[12]

The parallel event held at Tagata Shrine in Komaki City, Aichi Prefecture commemorates the male fertility aspect on the occasion. This celebration is inspired by the tale of Takeinazumi no mikoto, a deity known for his phallus who wed Aratahime no mikoto a revered goddess. The highlight of Tagata Shrine festivity is the procession featuring a palanquin carrying a linga (representing male genitalia) measuring nearly two meters long. It is followed by youths carrying a banner depicting a phallus. ^[8]^[9]

During the festival at Tagata Shrine attendees eagerly collect fragments of the banner as they believe these pieces hold properties that can ensure crops nurture harmonious relationships and guard against ailments related to intimacy. These fragments are traditionally placed in fields to promote prosperity. ^[8]^[9]

Both festivals have roots in customs and are cherished for their emphasis on fertility, abundance and the circle of life. They attract visitors from parts of Japan and beyond providing an enriching glimpse into cultural traditions linked to fertility rituals and reverence, for natural elements. ^[8]^[9]

Attending both the Yin festival, at Ōagata Shrine and the Yang festival at Tagata Shrine is believed to be important for receiving blessings in areas of life and prosperity. These festivals not mark the cycle and human fertility but also have a significant impact, on upholding and spreading local culture and traditions displaying the array of Japanese religious customs and beliefs. ^[8]^[9]

Tourism

The presence of symbols in these shrines can elicit. Shock among foreign visitors a reaction that was more pronounced in earlier times. For instance a foreign traveler in 1970 was taken aback upon encountering symbols for the time, in a popular history magazine detailing these shrines annual festivities.^[3]

The striking visual representation the banner showcased at the Oagata Festival portraying genitalia vividly illustrates the contrast, in sexual expressions between Japan and Western cultures.^[3]

The initial shock experienced by travelers in the past has gradually diminished over time suggesting a decreasing disparity in attitudes towards sexuality. This transition is evidenced by the reception of exhibitions in the UK that delve into imagery from times showing a historical Western acceptance of sexual themes similar to contemporary Japanese views.^[3]

Tourists participate in a variety of customs, such, as purifying themselves at the torii gate walking through a torii to show dedication and making wishes for their desires to be fulfilled.^[12]

Throughout the years Oagata Shrine and its festivals have adapted to times by blending customs with present day perspectives. While some festival elements have changed or been reimagined to align with views on gender and sexuality the core theme of celebrating fertility and unity remains constant. These adjustments mirror a shift towards recognizing and respecting diverse expressions of human sexuality and fertility within their historical and cultural contexts.^[11]^{: 331–353}

Directions

To reach Ōagata Shrine ride the Meijo subway line, transfer at Heiandori station to the Kami iida line. The final stop is Gakuden station. From there it's a 1.5 km stroll to the shrine. The trip from Heiandori station to Gakuden station lasts, around 28 minutes costing 620 yen for a journey.^[12]