Sasutahiko Shrine (Wakayama Prefecture) Complete Guide | History and Blessings of Okanomiya, Associated with Tokugawa Yoshimune
Sasutahiko Shrine, located in Kataoka-cho, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture, is a historic shrine affectionately known locally as “Okanomiya.” Boasting a history of over 1000 years as an Engishiki-listed shrine, it is known as the “shrine where Tokugawa Yoshimune, the 8th Shogun of the Edo Shogunate, took refuge.” This article provides a detailed introduction to Sasutahiko Shrine, including its history, blessings, visiting information, and access methods.
What is Sasutahiko Shrine?
Sasutahiko Shrine is a historic shrine that flourished as the guardian deity of Wakayama Castle. Formerly a prefectural shrine, it is currently revered as the tutelary deity of the Hirose, Daishin, Jōhoku, Fukiage, Ashihara, and Shinminami districts of Wakayama City.
Status as an Engishiki Shrine
An Engishiki shrine is a historically significant shrine listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho, a compilation of shrines from the mid-Heian period (927 AD). Sashitahiko Shrine is an Engishiki shrine listed in Nagusa District, Kii Province, and has existed as a highly prestigious shrine recognized by the imperial court since ancient times.
Origin of “Oka no Miya”
Sashitahiko Shrine is locally known as “Oka no Miya.” This name originates from the fact that the area where the shrine is located was formerly called “Oka” (hill). The area encompassing present-day Hirose, Daishin, Jōhoku, Fukiage, Ashihara, and Shinminami districts of Wakayama City corresponds to this “Oka,” and Sashitahiko Shrine has been revered as the tutelary deity of this region.
Deities Enshrined and Shrine History
Deities Enshrined
Sashitahiko Shrine enshrines two deities who are the ancestral gods of the Ōtomo clan.
Michi no Omi no Mikoto
A warrior who accompanied Emperor Jimmu on his eastern expedition and made significant contributions to the pacification of Yamato. He is considered the founder of the Otomo clan and played a role in protecting the Emperor.
Otomo no Sadehiko no Mikoto
A warrior who played an active role in the relief of Baekje and is known as a member of the Otomo clan. He is revered as a god of outstanding military achievements.
Founding and History of the Shrine
The exact founding date of Sashitahiko Shrine is unknown, but since it is listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho (a list of shrines compiled in the Heian period), it is believed to have existed at least before the Heian period. The Otomo clan was a powerful clan that handled the military affairs of the imperial court from ancient times, and since they held influence in this region, it is presumed that the shrine was enshrined as their clan deity.
Deep Connection with Tokugawa Yoshimune
The background to Sashitahiko Shrine becoming known as the “shrine where Yoshimune was adopted” lies in the deep connection between the Tokugawa family and the shrine.
Guardian Deity of Wakayama Castle
In 1619 (Genna 5), Tokugawa Yorinobu, the tenth son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, entered Wakayama Castle as the lord of the Kishu Domain. From this time, Sashitahiko Shrine was positioned as the guardian deity of Wakayama Castle and came to be revered by the Kishu Tokugawa family.
The Priest Who Became the Foster Parent of Shogun Yoshimune
In 1684 (Jokyo 1), when Tokugawa Yoshimune, who would later become the eighth shogun, was born, the priest of Sashitahiko Shrine acted as his foster parent (godfather). At that time, there was a custom of “false adoption,” where a child of high social standing was temporarily entrusted to another family to avoid misfortune. Yoshimune followed this custom, and the priest of Sashitahiko Shrine became his foster parent.
Statue of the Sacred Horse and Yoshimune’s Donation
The statue of the sacred horse on the shrine grounds is said to have been donated by Yoshimune, who became shogun, as an expression of gratitude. This statue of a sacred horse is a valuable cultural asset that conveys the deep connection between Yoshimune and the shrine.
Benefits of Sashitahiko Shrine
Career Advancement and Good Fortune
The most famous benefit of Sashitahiko Shrine is “career advancement and good fortune.” Yoshimune, born as the son of the lord of a branch domain of the Kishu Domain, overcame numerous difficulties to rise to the position of Shogun of the Edo Shogunate. Therefore, it is believed that one can receive the benefit of good fortune by emulating Yoshimune’s success.
Protection from Evil and Family Safety
Because the shrine enshrines the war gods Michiomi-no-Mikoto and Otomo-no-Satehiko-no-Mikoto, it is also believed to offer protection from evil and family safety. It has long served as the local guardian deity, protecting the lives of the people.
Victory and Long-lasting Military Fortune
Because the enshrined deities were warriors who played an active role in Emperor Jimmu’s eastern expedition and the relief of Baekje, it is believed that they bestow the strength to face challenges and difficulties in competitions.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall of Sashitahiko Shrine is built in the traditional style of shrine architecture, creating a tranquil atmosphere. In the worship hall, visitors offer their prayers in quiet contemplation.
Sacred Horse Statue
As mentioned earlier, the statue of the sacred horse, said to have been donated by Tokugawa Yoshimune, is one of the important highlights of the shrine grounds. As a valuable offering imbued with Yoshimune’s gratitude, many visitors stop to admire it.
Subsidiary Shrines
In addition to the main shrine, Sashitahiko Shrine has several subsidiary shrines within its grounds, allowing visitors to worship various deities.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) Information
Sashitahiko Shrine offers goshuin (shrine seals). The goshuin features the name “Sashitahiko Shrine” written in ink and stamped with the shrine’s seal. Those wishing to receive a goshuin should inquire at the shrine office.
Goshuin (Shrine Stamp) Reception Hours
Goshuin (shrine stamps) are generally available during the shrine office’s opening hours. We recommend calling ahead to confirm.
About Goshuincho (Shrine Stamp Books)
Please inquire directly with the shrine regarding the availability of original Goshuincho at Sashitahiko Shrine.
Annual Festivals and Events
Summer Festival
Every year on July 13th, the “Sashitahiko Shrine (Okanomiya) Summer Festival” is held. Numerous food stalls, food trucks, and traditional festival games like medaka (killifish) scooping are set up on the shrine grounds, and live performances by Wakayama artists are also held, making it a lively festival that attracts local people.
Grand Festival
Various festivals and events are held throughout the year. For detailed festival schedules, please check the shrine’s official website or contact them directly.
Access and Basic Information
Location
Address: 2-9 Kataoka-cho, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture
Phone Number
Inquiries regarding Sashitahiko Shrine can be made through the official website or the Wakayama Prefectural Shrine Association.
Transportation Access
Access by Train
- Take a Wakayama Bus from JR Wakayama Station or Nankai Wakayamashi Station
- Get off at the “Okanomiya-mae” bus stop and it’s a short walk.
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Hanwa Expressway “Wakayama IC”
- Approximately 2km north of Wakayama Castle, about 5 minutes by car
Parking
There is parking space for visitors around the shrine. Please check on-site for details.
Visiting Hours
While visiting the shrine grounds is generally free, the shrine office has limited hours. If you wish to receive a Goshuin (shrine stamp) or prayers, it is recommended to check in advance.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Wakayama Castle
Located approximately 2km south of Sashitahiko Shrine, Wakayama Castle is a famous castle that flourished as the residence of the Kishu Tokugawa family. From the castle tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Wakayama city, and it is also known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. It’s an ideal spot to visit in conjunction with a visit to Sashitahiko Shrine.
Kimii-dera Temple
Kimii-dera Temple, the second temple on the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage, is an ancient temple famous for its early-blooming cherry blossoms. It’s approximately a 20-minute drive from Sashitahiko Shrine.
Wakaura
Wakaura, a scenic spot mentioned in the Manyoshu (an ancient collection of Japanese poetry), is a tourist area with a beautiful coastline and scattered historical buildings. It’s approximately a 25-minute drive from Sashitahiko Shrine.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Proper Way to Visit a Shrine
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Offer your donation in front of the main hall.
- Worship using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Visit the subsidiary shrines within the grounds.
- When leaving, bow once after exiting the torii gate.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but may be restricted during festivals or inside the main hall. Please observe proper etiquette when taking photos.
Summary of the Charms of Sashitahiko Shrine
Sashitahiko Shrine is a shrine deeply intertwined with the history of Wakayama, boasting a history of over 1000 years as an Engishiki-listed shrine and as the temporary guardian shrine of Tokugawa Yoshimune. Many worshippers visit seeking blessings for career advancement and good fortune, and it continues to be revered as the local guardian deity.
Located close to Wakayama Castle, it’s easily accessible for tourists and especially recommended for history buffs. Those seeking to emulate Yoshimune’s rise to power, those facing a turning point in their lives, or those preparing for new challenges should definitely consider visiting Sashitahiko Shrine.
By calming your mind in the tranquil grounds and offering prayers to the enshrined deity, you’ll surely gain renewed energy. When you visit Wakayama, be sure to stop by Sashitahiko Shrine, affectionately known as “Okanomiya.”
