Complete Guide to Kumano Shrine (Sasaya, Teramachi, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture)
In the Sasaya district of Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, stands Kumano Shrine, a place of long-standing local faith. This article provides detailed information about Kumano Shrine, located at 16 Teramachi, Sasaya, Fukushima City, including its history, enshrined deities, features of the grounds, and access methods, useful for those considering a visit.
Basic Information about Kumano Shrine
Location and Contact Information
Location: 16 Teramachi, Sasaya, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture
Postal Code: 960-0241
Corporate Number: 2380005000732
Kumano Shrine is located in Teramachi, Sasaya district, in the southwestern part of Fukushima City. As the name “Teramachi” (temple town) suggests, this area has a history of being home to many temples and shrines, and it remains a quiet place of worship cherished by local residents.
Deities Enshrined
The deities enshrined at Kumano Shrine are gods invited from the Kumano Sanzan (Three Grand Shrines of Kumano). Generally, the following deities are enshrined at Kumano Shrines:
- Izanagi-no-Mikoto
- Izanami-no-Mikoto
- Hayatamao-no-Mikoto
- Kotosakao-no-Mikoto
These deities are believed to bestow blessings such as matchmaking, family safety, protection from evil, and healing from illness.
History and Origin of the Shrine
While detailed records of the founding dates of Kumano Shrines are lacking in some areas, many Kumano Shrines exist within Fukushima Prefecture, and it is said that each was founded by inviting a divided spirit from the Kumano Sanzan in Kii Province (present-day Wakayama Prefecture).
Kumano faith spread throughout Japan from the Heian period to the Kamakura period, and particularly in the Tohoku region, it developed in conjunction with Shugendo (mountain asceticism). The Kumano Shrine in Sasaya, Fukushima City, is thought to have been founded as a center of faith for the local people amidst this spread of Kumano faith.
The place name “Teramachi” (temple town) indicates that temples and shrines were once concentrated in this area, suggesting that the Sasaya district was a religious center from ancient times.
About Kumano Shrines in Fukushima City
There are several Kumano shrines in Fukushima City. This indicates that Kumano faith was widely prevalent.
Kumano Shrines in the Sasaya District
At least two Kumano Shrines have been identified in the Sasaya district:
- Kumano Shrine (16 Teramachi, Sasaya) – The shrine introduced in this article (Corporate Number: 2380005000732)
- Kumano Shrine (53 Maeda, Sasaya) – Another Kumano Shrine within the same Sasaya district (Corporate Number: 3380005000731)
It is not uncommon for multiple Kumano Shrines to exist within the same district, and each has a history of being maintained by different settlements or parishioner groups.
Other Kumano Shrines in Fukushima City
Besides the Sasaya district, there are other Kumano Shrines in Fukushima City:
- Kumano Shrine (15 Shimo-Iizaka Kumano) – Located approximately 1.7 km northwest of Higashi-Fukushima Station on the Tohoku Main Line. It is said that in the medieval period, a man named Kurotsu Shohachi brought a divided spirit of the Kumano deity from Kii Province.
- Kumano Shrine (Okabe, Shinzan) – This shrine houses the “Eight Tengu” shrine within its grounds and features a stone relief of Amida Triad stupa, a city-designated important cultural property believed to date back to the Kamakura period.
These shrines each possess their own unique history and characteristics, supporting the local faith.
Kumano Faith and Fukushima Prefecture
Spread of Kumano Faith to the Tohoku Region
Kumano faith originates from the Kumano Sanzan (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha) in Kii Province (Wakayama Prefecture). From the Heian period to the Kamakura period, pilgrimages to Kumano by the imperial family and nobility became popular, and later spread to samurai and commoners.
Shugendo practitioners and mountain ascetics played a significant role in the spread of Kumano faith to the Tohoku region. They traveled throughout the region, inviting the divine spirits of Kumano and establishing Kumano shrines, linking them to local mountain worship.
Famous Kumano Shrines in Fukushima Prefecture
While there are many Kumano shrines in Fukushima Prefecture, the following are particularly famous:
Shingu Kumano Shrine (Shingu, Keitoku-cho, Kitakata City)
It is said that the shrine originated in 1055 (Tenki 3), when Minamoto no Yoriyoshi invited the Kumano deity to pray for victory during the Former Nine Years’ War. In 1089 (Kanji 3), during the Later Three Years’ War, Minamoto no Yoshiie relocated and rebuilt the Kumano Shingu Shrine at its current location.
The “Nagatoko” (long hall) of the worship hall dates back to the early Kamakura period and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is a vast building with a hipped roof, thatched roof, 9 bays (27m) in the front and 4 bays (12m) on the sides, and is characterized by its 44 thick pillars. Within the grounds is a sacred ginkgo tree said to be over 800 years old, and the shrine is known as a representative historical shrine of Fukushima Prefecture.
Fukawa Kumano Shrine (Tsukidate-cho, Date City)
It is said to have been founded in 1597 (Keicho 2). There is a monument to “Tobacco God” erected in 1942 (Showa 17) by the Tsukidate-cho Tobacco Cultivation Association, which is attracting attention as a rare historical document showing the connection between local industry and faith.
Kumano Shrine (Joban Yumoto-cho, Iwaki City)
It is said that a divided spirit was enshrined here approximately 1240 years ago, in 783 (Enryaku 2), from the Kumano Three Shrines of Kishu. Known as the shrine closest to Spa Resort Hawaiians, its 500-year-old Japanese evergreen oak tree is a popular power spot. In recent years, it has also attracted attention for its Hawaii-related offerings, such as Aloha Goshuin (shrine stamps).
History and Culture of Sasaya District
Geography and History of Sasaya
The Sasaya district is located in the southwestern part of Fukushima City, spreading across the hilly area on the western side of the Fukushima Basin. This region has a long history of agriculture, characterized by a rural landscape of rice paddies and fields.
The place name “Teramachi” (temple town) indicates that temples and shrines were once concentrated in this area. It is believed that the Sasaya district played a religious role from the medieval to the early modern period.
Faith and Culture of the Sasaya District
In the Sasaya district, shrines and temples, including Kumano Shrine, have functioned as the center of the local community. Various festivals are held throughout the year, such as the spring festival and the autumn harvest festival, providing a place to deepen the bonds among local residents.
Furthermore, due to its location in the southwestern part of Fukushima City, it has a history as a transportation hub connecting the Aizu and Nakadori regions, and has been a place where various cultures exchanged.
Visiting Kumano Shrine
Access
Access by Car
Approximately 15 minutes from Fukushima-Nishi IC on the Tohoku Expressway.
Take National Route 115 towards Sasaya.
Access by Public Transportation
Take a bus from JR Fukushima Station.
Take a Fukushima Kotsu bus bound for “Sasaya,” get off at the nearest bus stop, and then walk to the shrine.
*Please check the timetable in advance, as the number of public transportation services may be limited.
Etiquette for Worship
When visiting Kumano Shrine, please observe the following basic etiquette:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate.
- Purify yourself at the water basin
If there is a water basin, purify your left hand, then your right hand, and then your mouth.
- Walking along the approach
The center of the approach is considered the path of the gods, so it is preferable to walk along the sides.
- Worship at the main hall
Two bows, two claps, and one bow is the basic form of worship. Place your offering in the offering box, ring the bell if there is one, bow deeply twice, clap your hands twice, silently recite your wish, and finally bow once more.
- Bow upon leaving When leaving, after passing through the torii gate, turn around and bow once more.
Attire and Manners for Visiting the Shrine
Unless it is a special festival, everyday attire is acceptable for visiting the shrine, but please note the following:
- Dress neatly.
- Avoid revealing clothing.
- Remove your hat before passing through the torii gate.
- Be quiet within the shrine grounds.
- Take photographs only where permitted.
- Check in advance regarding bringing pets.
Divine Virtues and Faith of Kumano Shrine
Benefits of Kumano Shrine
Kumano Shrine is believed to have the following divine virtues:
Matchmaking and Marital Harmony
Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto are a married couple in Japanese mythology, and are believed to grant blessings for successful matchmaking and marital harmony.
Family Safety and Prosperity of Descendants
As the gods of creation, they protect the safety of families and the prosperity of descendants.
Protection from Evil and Disaster
The gods of Kumano are believed to possess powerful purifying abilities, and there is a belief in their protection from evil and disaster.
Healing from Illness and Longevity
Kumano pilgrimage is also called a “journey of rebirth,” and there is a belief in praying for purification of mind and body and good health.
Business Prosperity and Abundant Harvest
The gods are also worshipped as guardians of local industries and agriculture.
Annual Events
Kumano Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year. Typical annual events at Kumano Shrine include:
New Year’s Day Festival (January 1st)
Prayers are offered for happiness and peace in the new year.
Setsubun Festival (around February 3rd)
Beans are scattered to ward off evil and invite good fortune.
Spring Grand Festival (around April)
Celebrating the arrival of spring and praying for a bountiful harvest.
Summer Purification Ceremony (June 30th)
This ceremony purifies and cleanses away the impurities accumulated over the past six months.
Autumn Grand Festival (around October)
This festival expresses gratitude for the harvest and prays for the prosperity of the community.
Year-End Purification Ceremony (December 31st)
This ceremony purifies away the impurities accumulated over the past year and prepares for the New Year.
*Specific festival dates and contents vary by shrine, so please check before visiting.
Nearby Shrines and Temples
In addition to Kumano Shrine, there are many other temples and shrines in the Sasaya district of Fukushima City and the surrounding area.
Temples and Shrines in the Sasaya District
Kumano Shrine (53 Maeda, Sasaya)
This is another Kumano Shrine located within the same Sasaya district. Its corporate number is 3380005000731, and it is maintained by a different group of parishioners than the Kumano Shrine in Teramachi, Sasaya.
Major Shrines in Fukushima City
Fukushima Inari Shrine
An ancient shrine located in the heart of Fukushima City, widely worshipped as a god of business prosperity.
Haguro Shrine
Known as the guardian shrine of Fukushima City, it attracts many worshippers during its annual festival.
Gokoku Shrine
A shrine dedicated to those from Fukushima Prefecture who died in war, located at the foot of Mount Shinobu.
Iizaka Hachiman Shrine
A shrine watching over the Iizaka Onsen hot spring resort area, it is also worshipped as the guardian deity of the hot springs.
Tourism in Fukushima City and Kumano Shrines
Attractions of Fukushima City
Fukushima City is the capital of Fukushima Prefecture, a city where rich nature and historical culture harmonize.
Fruit Kingdom
Fukushima City is known as the “Fruit Kingdom” due to its thriving production of fruits such as peaches, pears, and apples. Fukushima peaches, in particular, are famous throughout Japan.
Hot Spring Areas
There are three famous hot springs: Iizaka Onsen, Tsuchiyu Onsen, and Takayu Onsen, attracting many tourists.
History and Culture
There are numerous historical and cultural sites scattered throughout the area, such as Mount Shinobu, the Fukushima Castle Ruins, and the Koseki Yuji Memorial Museum.
Recommended Sightseeing in Sasaya District
When visiting the Sasaya district, you can enjoy the surrounding nature and rural scenery in addition to visiting Kumano Shrine.
Rural Scenery
The Sasaya district boasts beautiful rural landscapes, allowing you to enjoy nature throughout the four seasons.
Local Agricultural Products
Fresh vegetables and fruits can be purchased at direct sales outlets.
Quiet Environment
Escape the hustle and bustle of urban areas and enjoy a quiet environment to refresh your mind and body.
Kumano Shrine and the Local Community
The Shrine’s Relationship with the Community
Kumano Shrine is not merely a place of worship, but also plays a central role in the local community.
Interaction through Festivals
Annual festivals and seasonal festivals provide valuable opportunities for local residents to gather and interact.
Cleaning Activities
Regular cleaning of the shrine grounds is carried out by parishioners and local residents, ensuring the shrine is carefully preserved.
Passing on Traditions
Through preparations for festivals and assistance with religious ceremonies, local traditions are passed down to future generations.
The Role of Shrines in Modern Times
In modern society, shrines play the following roles:
A Place of Spiritual Support
In today’s stressful society, they play an important role as a place to quietly offer prayers.
Preservation of Culture
They protect ancient rituals and traditional events, passing on Japanese culture to future generations.
Community Bonds
Amidst depopulation and an aging population, community bonds centered around shrines are being re-evaluated.
Tourism Resources
Shrines with historical and cultural value are also attracting attention as local tourism resources.
Guidelines for Visiting Kumano Shrine
The Significance of Shrine Visits
Shrine visits are not merely sightseeing; they are an act of showing respect to the gods and offering gratitude and prayer.
A Heart of Gratitude
Let us have a heart of gratitude for the various blessings in our daily lives.
A Humble Attitude
Let us maintain a humble attitude in the presence of the gods and use this as an opportunity for self-reflection.
Wishes and Vows
Not only should we make wishes, but we should also vow to work towards their realization.
Post-Visit Guidelines
After visiting the shrine, it is important to maintain the following mindset:
Daily Gratitude
Let us not forget the gratitude we felt at the shrine in our daily lives.
Fulfilling Vows
Let us put into practice the vows we made during our visit.
Contributing to the Community
If possible, let us cooperate in the maintenance of the shrine and community activities.
Summary
Kumano Shrine, located at 16 Teramachi, Sasaya, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a historic shrine that has long been revered by the local people. It enshrines deities invited from the Kumano Sanzan (Three Grand Shrines of Kumano) and is believed to offer various blessings, including matchmaking, family safety, and protection from evil.
Nearby in the tranquil Sasaya district, it offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a place for quiet worship. Several other Kumano Shrines exist within Fukushima City, each with its own unique history and characteristics.
Visiting a shrine is a valuable opportunity to express gratitude and prayer to the gods, as well as to reflect on oneself. When visiting Fukushima City, we highly recommend visiting Kumano Shrine and spending some quiet time there.
Preserved with care by the local community, Kumano Shrine will continue to be a center of faith and a spiritual haven for the people of the Sasaya district of Fukushima City. A visit will offer a valuable experience of connecting with traditional Japanese culture and local history.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kumano Shrine in Sasaya, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture
Q1: Can I get a Goshuin (shrine stamp) at Kumano Shrine (Sasaya, Teramachi)?
A1: Kumano Shrine (16 Sasaya, Teramachi) may be unattended. We recommend contacting the Fukushima City Shrine Association or a nearby shrine in advance regarding the issuance of Goshuin. Some shrines in Fukushima City manage Goshuin for multiple shrines.
Q2: Are the Kumano Shrine in Sasaya, Teramachi and the Kumano Shrine in Sasaya, Maeda the same shrine?
A2: No, they are different shrines. Kumano Shrine at 16 Sasaya, Teramachi (Corporate Number: 2380005000732) and Kumano Shrine at 53 Sasaya, Maeda (Corporate Number: 3380005000731) are separate shrines located within the same Sasaya district. They are maintained by different groups of parishioners.
Q3: When is the best time to visit Kumano Shrine?
A3: Kumano Shrine is open for worship throughout the year. Especially during the New Year’s visit (January 1st-3rd), the Spring Grand Festival (around April), and the Autumn Grand Festival (around October), local festivals may be taking place, making these times ideal for experiencing the shrine’s atmosphere. However, please confirm specific festival dates with the shrine or the parishioners’ representatives.
Q4: Is there parking available near Kumano Shrine?
A4: Smaller shrines may not have dedicated parking. When visiting, please be considerate of the neighbors and avoid street parking; park in an appropriate location. If unsure, we recommend asking a local resident or parking a short distance away and walking.
Q5: Are there any other Kumano Shrines in Fukushima City that I should visit?
A5: There are several Kumano Shrines in Fukushima City. There are several Kumano Shrines, including the one in Shimo-Iizaka Kumano and the one in Okabe-aza-Shinzan (which houses the city’s important cultural property, the “Stone Relief Amida Triad Stupa”). Within Fukushima Prefecture, the Shingu Kumano Shrine in Kitakata City is known as a famous shrine with a nationally designated important cultural property, the Nagatoko (long hall).
Q6: What kind of wishes can I make at a Kumano Shrine?
A6: The deities enshrined at Kumano Shrines, Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, are believed to bestow blessings for matchmaking, marital harmony, family safety, prosperity of descendants, protection from evil, and healing from illness. While these are common wishes, the most important thing is to express your gratitude.
Q7: How can I learn more about the history of Kumano Shrines?
A7: For detailed information about the shrine’s history, you can inquire at the Cultural Properties Division of the Fukushima City Board of Education or the Fukushima Prefectural Shrine Association. You can also research materials related to the history of the Sasaya area at local history research societies or the local history section of libraries. Listening to the history passed down orally from local elders is also a valuable source of information.
