Yasaka Shrine (Tomiki, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture) | A Complete Guide to Tomiki Shrine, Famous for Boosting Lottery Luck
Yasaka Shrine (Tomiki Shrine), located in Tomiki, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture, is a shrine that attracts worshippers from all over Japan due to its auspicious name, “Tomiki ga Kuru” (meaning “wealth comes”), and its reputation for boosting lottery luck. With a long history dating back to its founding in 959 AD, it has been cherished by the local people as the guardian shrine of Tomiki-go. This article provides detailed information you should know before visiting Yasaka Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, highlights of the grounds, blessings, and access methods.
What is Yasaka Shrine (Tomiki Shrine)?
Yasaka Shrine is a shrine located in Tomiki, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture. While its official name is “Yasaka Shrine,” it is widely known locally as “Tomiki Shrine.” Under the modern shrine ranking system, it was classified as a Gosha (village shrine) and has been revered by the local community as the guardian shrine of Tomiki-go.
Located in Tomiku, a place with an auspicious name meaning “wealth will come,” this shrine has attracted attention as a place for good fortune and increased wealth. In particular, due to the wordplay with “tomi-kuji” (lottery), visitors from all over Japan come to pray for improved lottery luck. Within the shrine grounds is a path called the “Good Fortune Road Tomikuji,” which is enveloped in an auspicious atmosphere.
Address and Basic Information
Address: 892 Tomiki, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture (or 857, some sources list 854-2)
Former Shrine Rank: Gosha (Village Shrine)
Deity Enshrined: Susanoo-no-Mikoto
Alternate Names: Tomiki Shrine, Tomiki no Kami
History and Founding Origin of Yasaka Shrine
Founding Legend of 959 AD
Yasaka Shrine is said to have been founded in 959 AD. According to shrine tradition, Shikibu-no-Taifu Oka Jinbei Masahiro (later changed his surname to Kamata), a Shinto priest of Hitachi Ishii Daimyojin Shrine, stayed at Banshu Hiromine Shrine (Hiromineyama, Harima Province, the head shrine of Gozu Tenno), a shrine commissioned by Emperor Shomu, to pray for the fulfillment of his long-held wish.
On the dawn of the fulfillment of his vows, Masahiro received a divine oracle instructing him to “aim for the western sea and protect the common people wherever he arrives.” He then set sail westward in his boat. It is believed that his boat landed at the present-day Mitsuishi (Tomikimotomiya) in Tomikiura. Following this oracle, Masahiro is said to have enshrined Gozu Tenno from Hiromine Shrine in Harima Province and founded Yasaka Shrine.
Gozu Tenno and Susanoo-no-Mikoto
Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the enshrined deity of Yasaka Shrine, was identified with Gozu Tenno during the period of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism. Gozu Tenno was worshipped as a god who wards off epidemics and was enshrined at Yasaka Shrines and Gion Shrines throughout Japan, with Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine) as the head shrine.
With the separation of Shinto and Buddhism in the Meiji era, Gozu Tenno was separated as a Buddhist element and came to be enshrined as Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a Shinto deity. In Japanese mythology, Susanoo-no-Mikoto is known as a heroic god who slayed the Yamata no Orochi (eight-headed serpent), and is worshipped as a god of protection against evil and good fortune.
Origin of the Place Name Tomiku
The place name “Tomiku” is said to originate from the meaning of “wealth coming.” This auspicious place name was a major factor in making Yasaka Shrine famous as a shrine for financial luck and good fortune. It has long been affectionately known as the “God of Tomiku” in the region, and worshippers have constantly visited to pray for business prosperity and family fortune.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Gate and Zodiac Direction Chart
After passing through the torii gate and proceeding along the approach to the shrine, a magnificent shrine gate welcomes worshippers. The ceiling of this gate is engraved with a “Zodiac Direction Chart,” allowing visitors to check the auspicious direction and zodiac sign for the year. This zodiac direction chart, a fitting decoration for a shrine dedicated to good fortune, attracts the attention of many worshippers. When passing through the main gate, be sure to look up at the ceiling and admire the intricate carvings. The Ehoban is a traditional calendar representation combining directions and the Chinese zodiac, and has been used since ancient times to determine auspicious directions.
Lucky Charm Lion Statue
The most famous feature of Yasaka Shrine is the “Lucky Charm Lion Statue” located within the shrine grounds. It is said that touching the lucky charm held by this guardian lion while praying brings blessings of prosperity for descendants, fulfillment of wishes, and especially increased luck in lotteries.
Many worshippers stroke this lucky charm while praying for lottery winnings and improved financial fortune. The lucky charm has been polished by the hands of worshippers over the years, giving it a unique luster. This lion statue is a representative power spot of Yasaka Shrine and is frequently featured on social media and in the media.
Shrine Building and Sculptures
The shrine building of Yasaka Shrine is constructed in the traditional style of Shinto shrine architecture and features intricate carvings. The wood carvings on the worship hall and main shrine are particularly magnificent, showcasing the high level of craftsmanship.
The shrine grounds are meticulously clean, allowing for a tranquil atmosphere during worship. A donation box stands in front of the shrine, and worshippers offer their prayers using the traditional two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
The Lucky Charm Road and Fortune Slip
The path leading to Yasaka Shrine is named “The Lucky Charm Road and Fortune Slip,” a name that itself symbolizes good fortune. “Tomikuji” is a wordplay combining “Tomikuji” (lottery) and “Tomikuji” (road of fortune), raising the expectations of worshippers.
Walking along this Lucky Charm Road towards the shrine gradually purifies the mind and increases expectations of good fortune. Seasonal flowers are planted along the path, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of nature throughout the seasons.
Divine Blessings and Virtues
Increased Lottery Luck and Financial Fortune
The most famous blessing of Yasaka Shrine is increased luck in lotteries and financial fortune. Due to the wordplay between the place name “Tomi ga Kuru” (meaning “wealth comes”) and “Tomi-kuji” (lottery), a constant stream of worshippers visit before purchasing lottery tickets or praying for winning.
There are numerous reports of people winning the lottery after praying at Yasaka Shrine, and its reputation has spread by word of mouth. The shrine sees particularly large numbers of visitors during the year-end Jumbo and Summer Jumbo lottery seasons.
Good Fortune and Protection from Evil
The enshrined deity, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, has been worshipped since ancient times as a god of protection from evil and good fortune. As the guardian shrine of Tomikigo, Yasaka Shrine has functioned as a place where local people pray for protection from evil and good fortune.
It is believed that visiting the shrine at turning points in life or when starting something new can attract good fortune and ward off misfortune.
Prosperity of Descendants and Fulfillment of Prayers
Touching the lucky charm ball of the Lucky Lion statue is believed to bring blessings of prosperity of descendants and fulfillment of prayers. Many visitors come to pray for family prosperity and fertility.
Shrine for Male Good Fortune
Some sources refer to Yasaka Shrine as a “shrine for male good fortune.” It is particularly known as a place for men to pray for improved career luck, promotion, and business success.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) and Good Luck Charms
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
You can receive a goshuin at Yasaka Shrine. The goshuin will have the shrine’s name, “Yasaka Shrine” or “Tomikura Shrine,” written in ink, and stamped with the shrine’s seal. Many visitors have it recorded in their goshuin notebooks as a memento of their visit and as a good luck charm.
Please check the reception hours at the shrine office when requesting a goshuin. They can assist you during business hours, but please note that they may not be able to assist you during religious ceremonies or events. We recommend calling ahead to confirm.
Lucky Charms and Amulets
At the shrine’s gift shop, you can purchase lucky charms and amulets. They offer a variety of auspicious items unique to Yasaka Shrine, such as amulets for increasing lottery luck and amulets for increasing wealth.
Particularly popular are amulets featuring the “lucky ball” motif and lucky charms bearing the characters “富来” (meaning “wealth and prosperity”). These are popular for personal use and make great souvenirs.
Access Information
Access by Train and Bus
The following routes are convenient when using public transportation.
- Take a local bus from JR Nippo Main Line “Kitsuki” Station or “Oita” Station
- Transfer at “Kunisaki” bus stop
- Take the bus bound for “Monju” and get off at “Honfuki” bus stop
- A short walk from the bus stop
Since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance. It can get particularly crowded on holidays and during tourist seasons, so plan accordingly.
Access by Car
Access by car is the most convenient.
- Approximately 20 minutes from Oita Airport
- Approximately 1 hour from Oita City
- Approximately 50 minutes from Beppu City
When using a car navigation system, search for “892 Tomigi, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki City” or “Yasaka Shrine” or “Tomigi Shrine”.
Parking
There is a parking lot for visitors on the shrine grounds. It is free to use, but it can get crowded during peak seasons such as New Year’s Day and long holidays. Because parking is limited, please consider using nearby parking lots or public transportation during busy times.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting the Shrine
Basic Etiquette for Visiting the Shrine
Visiting Yasaka Shrine follows the same etiquette as visiting any other shrine.
- Bow before the Torii Gate: Before entering the shrine grounds, bow slightly before the torii gate.
- Purify at the Water Basin: Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Walk along the Path: The center of the path is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the sides.
- Offer your offering: Quietly place your offering in the offering box.
- Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow: Bow deeply twice, clap twice, and finally bow once with your prayers.
How to Touch the Lucky Ball
When touching the lucky ball on the Lucky Lion statue, touch it carefully and gently. Since this is a place touched by many worshippers, please respect the order and be considerate of other worshippers.
It is said that it is good to make a specific wish in your heart while touching the lucky ball. If you wish to win the lottery, it is said to be effective to visualize the type of lottery ticket you plan to buy and the amount you will win.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Rokugo Manzan Culture of the Kunisaki Peninsula
Kunisaki City, where Yasaka Shrine is located, is a region known for Rokugo Manzan culture. Rokugo Manzan is a unique syncretic culture of Shinto and Buddhism, said to have been founded in 718 AD by the Bodhisattva Ninmon, and many temples and stone cultural properties remain throughout the Kunisaki Peninsula.
When visiting Yasaka Shrine, sightseeing around the surrounding temples and stone Buddha statues is also recommended. In particular, Ryōshi-ji Temple, Monju-sen-ji Temple, and Fuki-ji Temple are famous temples representing the Kunisaki Peninsula.
Oita Airport
Located about 20 minutes by car from Yasaka Shrine, Oita Airport is the gateway to sightseeing on the Kunisaki Peninsula. The airport features an observation deck, restaurants, and souvenir shops, and you can also watch planes taking off and landing.
Utilizing Information from the Kunisaki City Tourism Association
The Kunisaki City Tourism Association provides tourism information for Kunisaki City, including Yasaka Shrine. You can obtain information on seasonal events, suggested sightseeing courses, and accommodations, so please utilize this resource when planning your trip.
Annual Events and Festivals
Grand Festival
Various festivals are held at Yasaka Shrine throughout the year. The Grand Festival, in particular, is an important event in which the entire community participates, and traditional performing arts such as portable shrines and Kagura (sacred dance) are offered.
First Shrine Visit of the New Year
Many worshippers visit the shrine for their first shrine visit of the New Year, praying for good fortune and increased wealth. The shrine, known as the “Shrine of Wealth,” is bustling with people praying for good luck throughout the year. The first three days of the New Year are especially crowded, so we recommend visiting with plenty of time to spare.
Guidelines for Visiting Yasaka Shrine
Opening Hours and Visiting Hours
While the grounds of Yasaka Shrine are generally open all day, the shrine office has limited hours. If you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or lucky charms, you must visit during opening hours.
For detailed opening hours, please inquire by phone in advance or check the official website. Opening hours may vary depending on the season and day of the week, so please be aware of this.
Privacy Policy and Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please be considerate of the privacy of other visitors and refrain from photographing people without their permission. Also, photography may be prohibited inside the shrine buildings and in sacred areas, so please follow the signs.
While posting on social media is increasing, please remember that shrines are sacred places and act with respect.
Timing of Lottery Ticket Purchase
After praying for good fortune at Yasaka Shrine, the timing of your lottery ticket purchase is up to you, but many people seem to buy them immediately after their visit. Buying them at a lottery ticket vendor in Oita Prefecture is fine, and buying them after returning home is also acceptable.
The important thing is to remember your prayers and maintain a grateful heart. If you win, don’t forget to offer your thanks at the shrine.
Summary: Pray for Good Fortune and Increased Financial Luck at Yasaka Shrine
Yasaka Shrine (Tomiki Shrine), located in Tomiki, Kunisaki-cho, Kunisaki City, Oita Prefecture, is a historical shrine founded in 959 AD. It is nationally known for its auspicious place name, “Tomiki,” meaning “wealth comes,” and its blessings for increasing lottery luck.
There are many sights to see, including the lucky lion statues on the shrine grounds, the zodiac sign and auspicious direction board at the main gate, and the “Good Fortune Road Tomikuji” approach. This shrine, dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto, offers blessings for protection against misfortune, good fortune, and prosperity of descendants.
Its convenient location, approximately 20 minutes by car from Oita Airport, makes it an attractive destination for those visiting the Kunisaki Peninsula. Parking is available, making it easy to visit by car.
Yasaka Shrine attracts visitors with various wishes, including those hoping to win the lottery, improve their financial luck, or pray for good fortune at a turning point in their lives. Why not visit this shrine, where “wealth comes,” and pray for good fortune yourself?
When visiting, observing proper etiquette and manners, and offering prayers with a grateful heart, will likely bring greater blessings. Please utilize the information provided by the Kunisaki City Tourism Association to enjoy a fulfilling visit and sightseeing experience.
