Shinmei Shrine (Towada Oyu, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture): History and Deities | An Ancient Shrine in Oyu Onsen, Celebrating 800 Years Since its Opening
Shinmei Shrine, located in Oyu, Towada Oyu, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is an ancient shrine situated in the heart of the Oyu Onsen hot spring resort area, boasting a history of 800 years since its opening. Since its founding in the early Edo period, it has been cherished as a center of local faith. In the Meiji era, it merged with 22 other shrines, and continues to be a beloved historical shrine for the local community.
This article provides a detailed introduction to Shinmei Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, the appearance of its grounds, and its connection to Oyu Onsen, based on materials from the Akita Prefectural Shrine Association.
Basic Information about Shinmei Shrine
Location: 109 Oyu, Towada Oyu, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture
Postal Code: 〒018-5421
Shrine Rank: Former Village Shrine
Main Deity: Ohirume-no-Mikoto (Amaterasu Omikami)
Annual Festival Day: September 15th
Shinmei Shrine is located in the Oyu Onsen area, which is the southern gateway to Lake Towada, and is situated close to the hot spring town along the Oyu River. There are eight inns and four public bathhouses (Kami-no-Yu, Shimo-no-Yu, Kawara-no-Yu, and Arase Public Bathhouse) in the surrounding area, and it is cherished by local residents and tourists alike as the guardian deity of the hot spring area.
History of Shinmei Shrine
Origin of Founding
The founding date of Shinmei Shrine is unknown, but several legends remain. According to the most widely accepted tradition, the shrine was established in 1617 (Genna 3) in the village of Oyu, at 109 Oyu, Towada-Oyu, Kazuno City. Genna 3 was a time when the Edo shogunate was entering a period of stability, and regional development was progressing.
Another tradition states that it was established in 1723 (Kyoho 8) by a certain Kitabayashi. The Kyoho era was a time when Tokugawa Yoshimune implemented the Kyoho Reforms, and the development of local shrines was also progressing. Both traditions indicate its founding during the Edo period, confirming that it is an ancient shrine with a history of over 300 years.
Changes since the Meiji Era
In 1873 (Meiji 6), it was designated a village shrine. Under the Meiji era’s shrine system, village shrines were positioned as central shrines in the region, and Shinmei Shrine was officially recognized as the center of faith in the Oyu area.
After 1907 (Meiji 40), 22 shrines were merged as part of the shrine consolidation policy. This merger integrated many small shrines and subsidiary shrines in the Oyu district, resulting in the numerous deities enshrined at Shinmei Shrine today. This shrine consolidation policy was implemented nationwide, and Shinmei Shrine was also affected.
In July 1938 (Showa 13), the shrine was relocated and rebuilt at its current location. This relocation resulted in the development of the current shrine grounds, establishing its status as a central shrine in the region.
About the Enshrined Deities
Shinmei Shrine enshrines many deities, including the principal deity, Ohirume-no-Mikoto, due to the mergers during the Meiji era.
Principal Deity
Ohirume-no-Mikoto
Another name for Amaterasu Omikami, the supreme deity in Japanese mythology as the sun god. The name “Shinmei-sha” is often used for shrines that enshrine Amaterasu Omikami, the deity of Ise Grand Shrine, indicating that this shrine was also founded as a shrine based on Ise faith.
Deities Enshrined Together
Due to the merger of 22 shrines since 1907 (Meiji 40), the following deities have been enshrined here:
Hon-da-wake-no-mikoto
A deified form of Emperor Ojin, worshipped as Hachiman, the god of military fortune and national protection.
Uke-mochi-no-mikoto
As the god of abundant harvests and food, she is an important deity in the Oyu area, where agriculture is thriving.
Take-mikazuchi-no-mikoto
Futsunushi-no-mikoto
Both are known as warrior gods of Kashima and Katori, and played an active role in the myth of pacifying the land.
Kanayamahiko-no-Mikoto
Deity of mines and metals, thought to be associated with mining development in the Kazuno region.
Shirayamahime-no-Mikoto
Deity of Hakusan worship, revered as a god of water and agriculture.
Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto
Deity of mountains, associated with mountain worship.
Homusubi-no-Mikoto
Deity of fire, deeply associated with hot spring areas.
Onamuchi-no-Mikoto
Another name for Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, worshipped as a god of nation-building.
Kamado-gami
Deity of kitchens and fire, an object of worship closely related to daily life.
These diverse deities are the result of the merger of shrines worshipped by various settlements and professional groups in the Oyu district, reflecting the diverse forms of belief in the region.
Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Shrine Building and Grounds
The shrine grounds, which were relocated and rebuilt in 1938, are located in a quiet corner of the Oyu Onsen hot spring resort area. Surrounded by trees, the grounds offer a space where one can experience the changing seasons, and the autumn foliage season, in particular, offers a beautiful view.
The shrine building is based on the traditional Shinmei-zukuri style, and its construction shows the influence of Ise Shinto beliefs.
Etiquette for Worship
At Shinmei Shrine, follow the general etiquette for worshipping at a Shinto shrine.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- When leaving the shrine grounds, turn back to the torii gate and bow once.
The relationship between Shinmei Shrine and Oyu Onsen
The history of Oyu Onsen
Oyu Onsen is an ancient hot spring with a history of 800 years since its opening, and has long been cherished by many people as a “village of hot springs” and a “village of steam.” It is a naturally occurring hot spring along the Oyu River, known for its excellent efficacy and abundant water supply.
During the Edo period, it was designated as a hot spring resort for the Nanbu clan lord who ruled this area, and developed under the protection of the domain. The Nanbu clan was a large domain with a vast territory stretching from northern Iwate Prefecture to eastern Aomori Prefecture, and the fact that its lord chose Oyu Onsen as a resort speaks to its high quality.
As the Guardian Deity of the Hot Spring Resort
Shinmei Shrine has functioned as the spiritual support for this historic hot spring resort. It has attracted the faith of not only local residents but also visitors seeking therapeutic baths, as a place to express gratitude for the blessings of the hot springs and pray for the safety and prosperity of the region.
The enshrined deities, such as Hobu-no-Mikoto (God of Fire) and Hakusan-hime-no-Mikoto (Goddess of Water), are deeply connected to the natural blessings of the hot springs, strongly reflecting its character as a shrine in a hot spring resort.
Annual Events and Festivals
Annual Festival (September 15th)
The most important festival at Shinmei Shrine is the annual festival held every year on September 15th. At this festival, gratitude for the past year and prayers for the safety and prosperity of the region are offered. Local residents gather, and traditional Shinto rituals are performed.
Other Festivals
In addition to the annual festival, Shinmei Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year, including a New Year’s prayer festival and grand festivals in spring and autumn. These festivals are conducted solemnly according to traditional Shinto rituals, under the guidance of the Akita Prefectural Shrine Association.
Access and Surrounding Information
Transportation Access
By Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Towada IC on the Tohoku Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from the Kazuno-Hachimantai IC
By Public Transportation
- Approximately 30 minutes by bus from Kazuno-Hanawa Station on the JR Hanawa Line, then a 5-minute walk from the “Oyu Onsen” bus stop.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Oyu Stone Circle (Special Historic Site)
A large-scale stone circle from the late Jomon period, and one of the constituent assets of the World Heritage Site “Jomon Prehistoric Sites in Hokkaido and Northern Tohoku.” It is approximately a 5-minute drive from Shinmei Shrine.
Yunoeki Oyu (Roadside Station Oyu)
An information hub for Oyu Onsen, where you can purchase local specialties. A footbath is also available.
Lake Towada
Lake Towada is a representative scenic spot of Tohoku, located about 30 minutes by car from Shinmei Shrine. Oyu Onsen serves as the southern gateway to Lake Towada and is a base for sightseeing.
Visiting Public Baths
Oyu Onsen has four public baths (Kami-no-yu, Shimo-no-yu, Kawara-no-yu, and Arase Public Bath), each offering a different water quality and atmosphere.
Akita Prefecture Shrine Association and Shinmei Shrine
Shinmei Shrine is a shrine belonging to the Akita Prefecture Shrine Association, ensuring proper management and operation. The Akita Prefecture Shrine Association is the organization that oversees shrines in Akita Prefecture, providing guidance on shrine festivals, training for Shinto priests, and protecting cultural properties.
Official information about Shinmei Shrine is also available on the Akita Prefecture Shrine Association website, where you can check basic information such as the enshrined deities, history, and annual festival dates.
History and Culture of the Oyu Area
History from the Jomon Period
The Oyu area has been inhabited by people since the Jomon period, and the Oyu Stone Circle is evidence of this. The two large stone circles, the Nonakado Stone Circle and the Manza Stone Circle, are ritual sites from the late Jomon period (approximately 4,000 years ago) and demonstrate the advanced spiritual culture of that time.
Development during the Nanbu Domain
During the Edo period, the area became part of the Nanbu Domain, and Oyu Onsen (hot springs) was developed as a resort for the feudal lord. During this period, the foundation of the hot spring resort was established, and its reputation as a therapeutic bathing destination spread. The founding of the Shinmei Shrine also coincides with this period, and it is thought that it was developed as a place of worship along with the development of the hot spring resort.
Changes in the Modern Era
With the abolition of the feudal domains and establishment of prefectures in the Meiji era, the Oyu area was incorporated into Akita Prefecture. The ranking of the Shinmei Shrine as a village shrine in 1873 (Meiji 6) indicates its position within this new administrative division.
During the Showa era, as tourism around Lake Towada developed, Oyu Onsen also strengthened its character as a tourist destination. Currently, it attracts many tourists from both Japan and abroad as a tourist destination combining Jomon period ruins, hot springs, and Lake Towada tourism.
Guidelines for Visiting Shinmei Shrine
Best Time to Visit
Shinmei Shrine is open for visits throughout the year, but the following times are particularly recommended:
Spring (April-June)
The season of fresh greenery envelops the shrine grounds in beautiful green. Visiting after a soak in the hot springs is particularly enjoyable.
Autumn (September-November)
Around September 15th, when the annual festival is held, you can feel the atmosphere of a local festival. The autumn foliage season (mid-October to early November) offers especially beautiful scenery.
Winter (December-March)
Visiting amidst a snowy landscape creates a mystical atmosphere. Visiting after warming up in the hot springs is also recommended.
Etiquette for Visiting the Shrine
- The shrine grounds are a sacred place, so please maintain silence.
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors.
- Please take all your trash with you.
- Entry into the shrine building is generally prohibited.
Connections with the Community
Shinmei Shrine is not merely a tourist attraction; it plays a central role in the local community. Through local festivals and events, it serves as a place to deepen connections among residents and plays an important role in the transmission of traditional culture.
The history of merging 22 shrines after 1907 (Meiji 40) is also a history of various settlements and beliefs in the Oyu district coming together. By enshrining the deities that each settlement cherished in one place, it has played a role in strengthening the unity of the entire community.
Summary
Shinmei Shrine, located in Oyu, Towada Oyu, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is a historical shrine said to have been founded in 1617 (Genna 3) or 1723 (Kyoho 8). Established as a village shrine in 1873 (Meiji 6), and having merged with 22 other shrines since 1907 (Meiji 40), it has developed into the central shrine of the Oyu district.
Shinmei Shrine, which enshrines many deities including the principal deity Ohirume-no-Mikoto (Amaterasu Omikami), as well as Homutawake-no-Mikoto, Ukemochi-no-Mikoto, Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto, Futsunushi-no-Mikoto, Kanayamahiko-no-Mikoto, Hakusanhime-no-Mikoto, Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto, Hobu-no-Mikoto, Onamuchi-no-Mikoto, and Kamado-no-Kami, is cherished by local residents and tourists alike as the guardian deity of Oyu Onsen, which boasts a history of 800 years since its opening.
The shrine grounds, which were relocated and rebuilt at their current location in July 1938 (Showa 13), offer a tranquil space where one can experience the changing seasons, making it an ideal stop during a hot spring trip. Why not add a visit to Shinmei Shrine to your travel itinerary, perhaps combining it with sightseeing at Lake Towada or a visit to the Oyu Stone Circle?
As an officially recognized shrine belonging to the Akita Prefectural Association of Shinto Shrines, Shinmei Shrine, where traditional festivals are held, is a valuable place that conveys the history and culture of the region to the present day. When you visit Oyu Onsen, be sure to visit this historic shrine and experience the local faith and culture.
