Fudatsugi Shrine (Machida City, Tokyo) | Complete Guide to Deities, History, and Access
Fudatsugi Shrine, located in Koyamagaoka, Machida City, Tokyo, is a historic shrine that maintains a tranquil atmosphere despite its convenient location just a one-minute walk from Tamasakai Station on the Keio Sagamihara Line. It enshrines Takemikazuchi-no-kami, who was invited from Kashima Jingu Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture, and has long been cherished by the local community.
This article comprehensively introduces all the information you need to know before visiting Fudatsugi Shrine, including its enshrined deities, history, highlights within the grounds, the Kotanei-ishi (silkworm egg stone), a symbol of fertility and sericulture, and access methods.
Basic Information about Fudatsugi Shrine
Location
Address: 3-17-2554 Koyamagaoka, Machida City, Tokyo 194-0215
*Some sources list “Koyama-cho 2554,” but the official address is Koyamagaoka 3-chome.
Deity Enshrined
Takemikazuchi-no-kami
Takemikazuchi-no-kami is a warrior god who played an active role in the negotiations for the transfer of the land in Japanese mythology. He also possesses characteristics of a thunder god and sword god, and is believed to bestow blessings such as victory, protection from evil, good fortune, and improvement in martial arts. He is the principal deity of Kashima Jingu Shrine in Kashima City, Ibaraki Prefecture, and Fudatsugi Shrine is said to have been established by inviting him from Kashima Jingu Shrine.
Shrine Rank/Former Rank
Village Shrine
History and Origins of Fudatsugi Shrine
Founding Date
The founding date of Fudatsugi Shrine is unknown, but several traditions and records remain.
According to shrine tradition, it is said to have been founded in 585 BC, but this is merely a tradition. A reliable record is that during the land survey of December 1666 (Kanbun 6), it received a “red seal land grant of 2 koku and 2 to (one theory says 12 koku and 2 to) for Fudatsugi Daimyojin.” This record confirms that the shrine was already established at least by the early Edo period.
Invitation from Kashima Shrine
Fudatsugi Shrine is believed to have been established by inviting the deity from Kashima Shrine, the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Hitachi Province (present-day Ibaraki Prefecture). Kashima Shrine was the center of war god worship in eastern Japan, and many shrines in the Kanto region were established by inviting the deity from Kashima Shrine. Fudaji Shrine is one such example, having firmly established the worship of Takemikazuchi-no-kami in the region.
Changes in the Shrine Building
The shrine building of Fudaji Shrine has undergone the following changes:
- August, 1756 (Hōreki 6): Reconstruction of the shrine building
- 1951 (Shōwa 26): Reconstruction of the worship hall
- July, 1964 (Shōwa 39): Merger of Katasho Tsushima Shrine and Tabata Yasaka Shrine
Due to the merger in 1964, it is believed that in addition to Takemikazuchi-no-kami, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the deity enshrined at Tsushima Shrine and Yasaka Shrine, is also enshrined at the current Fudaji Shrine.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Silkworm Egg Stone (Kotanei-ishi)
Within the grounds of Fudaji Shrine, there is a special stone called the Silkworm Egg Stone (Kotanei-ishi). This stone has been revered by the local people as a symbol of fertility and sericulture.
Sericulture was one of the important industries in the Tama region from the Meiji era to the early Showa era. The silkworm egg stone was an object of prayer for abundant harvests (silkworm reproduction) by sericulture farmers, and was also worshipped as a symbol of fertility. Even today, worshippers praying for children sometimes visit.
Quiet Shrine Grounds
Despite being very close to Tamasakai Station, the grounds of Fudatsugi Shrine maintain a tranquil atmosphere. Although located in a residential area, stepping onto the grounds reveals a peaceful space far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The grounds are small but well-maintained, reflecting the care and affection the local community cherishes.
Fudatsugi Shrine and Musashi-Oyama Castle
There is a legend that Musashi-Oyama Castle once stood in the vicinity of Fudatsugi Shrine. Koyama Castle was a medieval mountain castle, believed to have been the residence of the Koyama clan, vassals of the Hojo clan. However, there are various theories regarding its exact location.
The area around Fudatsugi Shrine is a gently sloping hilly region, a suitable terrain for constructing a castle. Some researchers suggest that the area around Fudatsugi Shrine may have been the site of Koyama Castle. However, no clear remains exist, and this remains purely in the realm of legend.
Visiting Fudatsugi Shrine while feeling a sense of historical romance is one way to enjoy it.
Access Information
Nearest Station/Line
Keio Sagamihara Line, Tamasakai Station
- Approximately 1 minute walk (approx. 87m) from Exit A2
- Approximately 2 minutes walk from Exit A1
Tamasakai Station is on the Keio Sagamihara Line, and direct service to the Keio Line is available from Shinjuku. It offers good access from central Tokyo.
Travel Time from Major Stations
- From Shinjuku Station: Approximately 40 minutes by Keio Line Limited Express or Semi-Limited Express, transfer to the Keio Sagamihara Line at Hashimoto Station, and approximately 3 minutes to Tamasakai Station.
- From Shibuya Station: Approximately 50 minutes by Inokashira Line to Meidaimae Station, then transfer to the Keio Line.
- From Hashimoto Station: Approximately 3 minutes by Keio Sagamihara Line.
Nearest Bus Stops and Routes
Fudaji Shrine is within walking distance of Tamasakai Station, so using the bus is not usually necessary. However, we will also provide information on nearby bus stops.
Tamasakai Station Bus Stop
- Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu Bus
- Routes available to Machida Bus Center, Sagami-Ono Station, etc.
Access by Car
From National Route 16
- Head west at Aihara Crossroads
- Approximately 2km, about 5 minutes by car
Parking: Information regarding dedicated parking for Fudatsugi Shrine is limited. When visiting, we recommend using coin parking lots around Tamasakai Station or accessing the shrine by public transport.
Map
The exact location of Fudatsugi Shrine can be confirmed by searching for “Fudatsugi Shrine” on Google Maps or Yahoo! Maps. It is located in a residential area about 100m northeast of Exit A2 of Tamasakai Station. It is very close to the station, so you are unlikely to get lost.
Points to Note When Visiting
Visiting Hours
Fudatsugi Shrine is open for worship at all times, but the shrine office is not always staffed. If you wish to receive a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) or other items, we recommend checking in advance.
Visiting Etiquette
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (water basin) (This step can be omitted if there is no temizuya).
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- Maintain silence within the shrine grounds.
Nearby Attractions
The area around Tamasakai Station boasts numerous large commercial facilities and restaurants, making it convenient for meals and shopping after your visit. Furthermore, a short trip will take you to other shrines and temples in Machida City, as well as parks rich in nature.
Annual Events at Fudatsugi Shrine
List of Festivals and Events (2026)
Regarding specific annual events at Fudatsugi Shrine, official information is limited. It is believed that, like most shrines, the following events are held.
- January 1st: New Year’s Day Festival
- February (Setsubun): Setsubun Festival
- Spring: Spring Grand Festival (Dates vary by region)
- Autumn: Autumn Grand Festival (Dates vary by region)
- November: Shichi-Go-San Festival
- December 31st: Great Purification Ceremony/New Year’s Eve Festival
For specific dates and details, please check with the Machida City Tourism Association or local information before visiting.
Divine Virtues of Fudatsugi Shrine
Fudatsugi Shrine, which enshrines Takemikazuchi-no-kami, is believed to possess the following divine virtues:
- Good Fortune and Victory: Due to its nature as a god of war, it is believed to bring success in competitions and contests.
- Protection from Evil and Misfortune: The powerful divine energy wards off evil spirits.
- Good Fortune and Career Advancement: The power to forge one’s own path in life.
- Improvement in Martial Arts: Improvement of skills in martial arts and sports.
- Prosperity of Descendants: Due to the belief in the silkworm egg stone, it is believed to bring fertility and safe childbirth.
- Industrial Prosperity: Due to the tradition of sericulture belief, it is believed to bring business development.
The Position of Fudatsugi Shrine in Machida City’s Shrine Culture
While numerous shrines are scattered throughout Machida City, Fudatsugi Shrine has served as the guardian shrine of the Koyamagaoka area, acting as a spiritual pillar for the local community.
In particular, its history dating back to the Edo period and its origins as a shrine established through the enshrinement of Kashima Jingu Shrine form a part of the identity of the local people. The fact that other shrines were merged with it in 1964 also speaks to the history of shrine consolidation in the region.
In modern times, the area around Tamasakai Station has seen an increase in new residents due to development, but Fudatsugi Shrine will continue to be cherished as a symbol of the coexistence of tradition and modernity in the region.
Summary
Fudatsugi Shrine is a historic shrine located in Koyamagaoka, Machida City, Tokyo. It enshrines Takemikazuchi-no-kami, who was invited from Kashima Jingu Shrine, and is believed to bestow blessings such as victory, protection from evil, and prosperity of descendants.
Within the shrine grounds is a silkworm egg stone, a symbol of sericulture and the prosperity of descendants, conveying the history and culture of the region to the present day. Despite its excellent accessibility—just a one-minute walk from Tamasakai Station—the shrine grounds maintain a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace of mind.
If you have the opportunity to visit Machida City or use Tamasakai Station, why not stop by Fudatsugi Shrine? A visit to this historic shrine is sure to be a memorable experience.
