Complete Guide to Ninomiya Shrines | A Thorough Explanation of the History, Deities, and Blessings of Ninomiya Shrines Nationwide
What are Ninomiya Shrines?
There are several shrines named “Ninomiya Shrine” throughout Japan. There are two main origins for this name. One is a shrine with the status of “Ninomiya,” referring to the second-ranked shrine in the “National Shrine Register” of the ancient provincial government system. The other is a shrine dedicated to Ninomiya Sontoku, an agricultural reformer and thinker of the late Edo period.
This article provides a detailed explanation of the historical background, deities, blessings, and visiting information for major Ninomiya shrines scattered throughout Japan. This information will be useful for those planning a shrine visit or those interested in Japanese history and culture.
Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine (Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Deity and History
Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine is a shrine located within Odawara Castle in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and was founded in 1894 (Meiji 27). The enshrined deity is Ninomiya Sontoku (Kinjiro), an agricultural reformer and thinker who was active in the late Edo period.
Ninomiya Sontoku was born in 1787 (Tenmei 7) in Kayama Village (present-day Kayama, Odawara City), part of the Odawara Domain. He lost his parents at a young age and lived in poverty, but through diligence and frugality, he rebuilt his family’s fortunes. He then dedicated himself to the reconstruction of dilapidated rural areas, establishing the “Hotoku philosophy.” He is a great figure who contributed to the reconstruction of over 600 villages.
What is the Hotoku Philosophy?
The Hotoku philosophy is a practical moral and economic philosophy based on four virtues: “sincerity,” “diligence,” “moderation,” and “sharing.” It emphasizes gratitude for the blessings of nature, diligent work, living within one’s means, and giving away surplus to others and society. It possesses universal values that resonate with modern sustainable society building.
Benefits and Points to Note When Visiting
The Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine is known for its blessings related to academic success, business prosperity, good fortune, and family safety. In particular, due to its connection to the life of Ninomiya Sontoku, it is believed to grant rewards for hard work and the strength to overcome difficulties, attracting many students, entrepreneurs, and business owners.
The shrine grounds also feature a bronze statue of Sontoku and a museum where visitors can learn about the Hotoku philosophy. It can be visited in conjunction with a trip to Odawara Castle. Shinto wedding ceremonies are also held here, allowing couples to celebrate their new beginnings in a solemn atmosphere.
Access
- Location: 8-10 Jonai, Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Odawara Station on the JR and Odakyu Lines, or by bus towards Odawara Castle
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
Ninomiya Shrine (Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture)
History as the Second Shrine of Shimosa Province
Ninomiya Shrine, located in Mitsuyama, Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture, is a candidate for the Shikinaisha (a shrine listed in the Engishiki, an ancient Japanese legal text) and is said to be the second shrine of Shimosa Province. According to shrine tradition, it was founded during the Kōnin era (810-824) by imperial decree of Emperor Saga. It was formerly known as “Mitsuyama Myōjin” or “Ninomiya Myōjin.”
Deities and Blessings
The enshrined deities are the married couple, Takehayasusano-no-Mikoto and Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto. Susanoo-no-Mikoto is known as the heroic god who defeated Yamata-no-Orochi (a mythical eight-headed serpent), and is revered for his divine power to ward off evil and misfortune. Kushinadahime-no-Mikoto is Susanoo-no-Mikoto’s wife and is the goddess of marital harmony and matchmaking.
The shrine is revered as the guardian shrine of the 23 villages of Shimeshita in the surrounding area, and remains a central place of worship for the local people.
Annual Events and Festivals
Ninomiya Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year. The autumn grand festival is particularly grand, featuring a portable shrine procession and devotional performances, attracting many worshippers. Many families also visit during the New Year’s pilgrimage and Shichi-Go-San (a traditional Japanese rite of passage for children).
Shrine Information
- Location: 5-20-1 Miyama, Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 8 minutes on foot from Keisei Okubo Station on the Keisei Main Line, or by bus from Tsudanuma Station on the JR Sobu Line
- Parking: Available
Ninomiya Shrine (Akiruno City, Tokyo)
The Second Shrine of Musashi Soja Rokushogu
Ninomiya Shrine, located in Akiruno City, Tokyo, is affectionately known as “Myojin-sama.” It is a prestigious shrine, the second shrine of Musashi Soja Rokushogu (present-day Okunitama Shrine).
In ancient times, this area belonged to Ogawa-go in Tama County, and was therefore also called “Ogawa Daimyojin.” There is a legend that Fujiwara no Hidesato, a military commander of the Heian period, prayed for victory here. Later, during the Edo period, it received reverence from successive samurai families, including being granted fifteen koku of land by Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Deity and Worship
The enshrined deity is Kunitokotachi-no-Mikoto, one of the primordial gods in Japanese mythology. He is considered a god who appeared at the creation of heaven and earth, and bestows blessings of national peace, abundant harvests, and family safety.
As the guardian shrine of the region, it enjoys deep faith from those engaged in agriculture, and many worshippers visit during the spring Kinensai (harvest festival) and autumn Niinamesai (harvest festival).
Access Information
- Location: Ninomiya, Akiruno City, Tokyo
- Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Higashi-Akiru Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line
Ninomiya Shrine (Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture)
An Ancient Shrine Located in the Heart of Kobe
Ninomiya Shrine, located in Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, is a historic shrine situated in the heart of Kobe. Affectionately known as “Ninomiya-san” by the citizens, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere despite being in the middle of a business district.
Deity and History
The enshrined deity is Amenoshihomimi-no-Mikoto, a child of Amaterasu-Omikami. Along with Ikuta Shrine and Nagata Shrine, it is considered one of Kobe’s three major shrines and has been revered since ancient times as the guardian deity of the port city of Kobe.
Worship and Prayers
The shrine office accepts various prayers and rituals, and reservations are required. They cater to a wide range of wishes, including business prosperity, family safety, protection from evil, and safe childbirth.
- Shrine Office Reception Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Prayer Reservations: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Reservations by phone only)
- Location: 3-1-12 Ninomiya-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
- Phone: 078-221-4786
- Access: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR/Hanshin Motomachi Station, approximately 3 minutes on foot from Kencho-mae Subway Station
Ninomiya Shrine (Kosai City, Shizuoka Prefecture)
Legend of the Mountain Bird and the Magatama
Ninomiya Shrine in Kosai City, Shizuoka Prefecture, has an interesting history. The enshrined deity is Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto (another name for Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto), and it was originally located in Nakano-gō Kamasaki and called “Ninomiya Daimyōjin.”
A legend remains that in the first year of Chōtoku (995 AD), a mountain bird flew in from Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture) carrying a magatama (curved jewel) in a brocade bag. In 1517 (Eisho 14), the shrine was moved to its current location. At this time, the Yoshida family of Kyoto bestowed upon it the divine title of “Ninomiya,” and it has been called “Ninomiya Shrine” ever since.
Benefits
Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto is known as the god of nation-building and is believed to bestow blessings such as matchmaking, business prosperity, healing from illness, and abundant harvests. It is particularly known for its blessings in matchmaking, attracting many worshippers seeking good relationships.
Ninomiya Shrine (Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Ninomiya Shrine Founded by Pioneers
Located in Minami Ward, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Ninomiya Shrine was founded in 1880 (Meiji 13) when eight families of pioneers migrated and began establishing a village. The enshrined deity is Ninomiya Sontoku, and the shrine symbolizes the pioneering spirit and the philosophy of Hotoku (virtuous service).
Annual Festivals
- January 1st: New Year’s Day Festival
- April 15th: Spring Festival
- September 5th: Grand Festival
As a shrine that conveys the history of pioneering to the present day, it serves as a spiritual center for the local people.
- Location: 5-9-5 Minamidai, Minami-ku, Sagamihara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone: 042-748-2316
Ninomiya Shrine (Higashihiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture)
Shrine for Matchmaking
Ninomiya Shrine, located in Shiwa-cho, Higashihiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture, is known as a shrine for matchmaking. It is believed to bring blessings for strong bonds, and visitors praying for good relationships and marital harmony come to the shrine.
Visiting Information
- Location: 2456 Beppu, Shiwa-cho, Higashihiroshima City, Hiroshima Prefecture
- Visiting Hours: All day
- Inquiries: 082-433-2306
Etiquette for Visiting Ninomiya Shrine
Basic Worship Method
There are basic manners for visiting shrines. When visiting Ninomiya Shrine, please follow the steps below.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: Bow lightly before entering the sacred area.
- Purify at the water basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order, and finally your left hand.
- Walk along the edge of the path: The center of the path is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the edge.
- Manner in front of the main hall: Place your offering, ring the bell, and bow twice, clap twice, and bow once.
- Bow when leaving the torii gate: Turn around and bow towards the sacred area.
Receiving a Prayer
If you wish to have a formal visit (entering the main hall), it is recommended to contact the shrine office in advance to make a reservation. Especially at Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine and Kobe Ninomiya Shrine, reservations are required, so be sure to make a reservation by phone beforehand.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal) at Ninomiya Shrine
The Charm of Collecting Goshuin
In recent years, collecting goshuin has become popular, and you can receive unique goshuin at Ninomiya Shrines throughout the country. Goshuin are proof of your visit and a way to preserve your connection with the shrine.
When receiving a goshuin, be sure to complete your visit before going to the shrine office. It is important to bring your goshuin book and make a polite request. A donation (approximately 300-500 yen) is required.
Characteristics of Goshuin (Shrine Seals) at Each Shrine
At Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine, the seal symbolizing the teachings of Ninomiya Sontoku is stamped, while at Funabashi Ninomiya Shrine, the seal indicating its status as the second-ranked shrine of Shimosa Province is distinctive. The goshuin, reflecting the history and characteristics of each shrine, are something to cherish as a memento of your visit.
Prayers Available at Ninomiya Shrine
Main Types of Prayers
At Ninomiya Shrine, you can receive various prayers according to life’s milestones and wishes.
- Family Safety and Traffic Safety: Prayers for the health and safety of the family.
- Business Prosperity and Success: Especially at Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine, this is based on the management philosophy of Sontoku Ninomiya.
- Academic Achievement and Passing Exams: Prayers for the academic improvement of students and those taking exams.
- Exorcism and Protection from Misfortune: Prayers for warding off misfortune during unlucky years and protection from misfortunes related to directions.
- Safe Childbirth and First Shrine Visit: Prayers for the healthy growth of the child.
- Matchmaking and Good Relationships: Prayers for being blessed with good relationships.
Shinto Wedding Ceremony
Many Ninomiya shrines, including Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine, offer Shinto wedding ceremonies. In a solemn atmosphere, you can hold a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony, reporting the start of your new life to the gods and exchanging vows as husband and wife.
Reservations for Shinto wedding ceremonies are required several months in advance. Please contact the shrine office for details.
Tourist Attractions Around Ninomiya Shrine
Around Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine (Odawara)
Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine is located within Odawara Castle, making it a convenient stop for sightseeing along with Odawara Castle’s main keep, the Odawara Castle Historical Museum, and the Tokiwagi Gate SAMURAI Museum. Furthermore, the Kayama district, where Ninomiya Sontoku’s birthplace is located, also houses the Sontoku Memorial Museum, offering a deeper understanding of his life and philosophy.
Odawara is blessed with abundant seafood, allowing visitors to enjoy dishes made with fresh fish and local specialties such as Odawara kamaboko (fish cake).
Around Funabashi Ninomiya Shrine
Around the Ninomiya Shrine in Funabashi, you’ll find attractions such as Funabashi Andersen Park and Funabashi Racecourse. Additionally, Funabashi Port, facing Tokyo Bay, offers opportunities for clam digging and strolling through the seaside park.
Around Kobe Ninomiya Shrine
Kobe’s Ninomiya Shrine is located in the heart of the Sannomiya/Motomachi area, within walking distance of many of Kobe’s representative tourist spots, including Nankinmachi (Chinatown), the former foreign settlement, Meriken Park, and Harborland. It’s an excellent location for enjoying Kobe sightseeing after your visit.
Mindset for Visiting Ninomiya Shrine
With a Grateful Heart
Visiting a shrine is not just about making wishes, but also about expressing gratitude for the blessings of everyday life. Especially at shrines dedicated to Ninomiya Sontoku, it’s important to visit with the spirit of “utmost sincerity” from the Hotoku philosophy—that is, with sincerity and gratitude.
How to Apply These Teachings to Daily Life
The teachings of Ninomiya Sontoku hold universal values that are still relevant in modern society. “Diligence” emphasizes the importance of effort and perseverance, “Moderation” means living within one’s means, and “Giving” emphasizes the spirit of contributing to society. Why not take this opportunity to incorporate these teachings into your daily life?
Summary
Ninomiya shrines, located throughout Japan, each possess their own unique history and traditions, and have long been revered by local people. From ancient shrines bearing the national title of “Ninomiya” to shrines dedicated to the great figure Ninomiya Sontoku, a diverse range of Ninomiya shrines exist.
At the Hotoku Ninomiya Shrine, you can learn about Sontoku’s achievements and Hotoku philosophy, while the Ninomiya shrines in Funabashi and Tokyo offer a glimpse into their ancient history and traditions. Ninomiya shrines in Kobe, Shizuoka, Hiroshima, and other locations are also cherished as places of worship rooted in their respective regions.
Visiting a shrine is a valuable opportunity to connect with Japanese history, culture, and spirituality. When visiting a Ninomiya shrine near you, or one you encounter while traveling, deepening your understanding of its history and enshrined deities, and offering heartfelt prayers, will make for a more fulfilling experience.
When planning a visit to a shrine, it is recommended to check the official website or call in advance for visiting hours, prayer reservations, and access information. Reservations are especially necessary if you wish to have a Shinto wedding ceremony or a formal visit to the shrine.
We hope that your visit to Ninomiya Shrine will be a fulfilling experience and have a positive impact on your daily life.
