Oshima Hachiman Shrine (Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Festivals, and Visiting Information
Oshima Hachiman Shrine, located in the Niihama Oshima district of Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture, is a shrine with a long history as a center of local faith. In particular, the Autumn Grand Festival held every October is known for its traditional “Yomiya” (night festival), considered the prototype of the Saijo Danjiri festival, attracting many worshippers and tourists.
This article provides detailed information you should know before visiting Oshima Hachiman Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, annual events, and access methods.
About Oshima Hachiman Shrine
Oshima Hachiman Shrine is a shrine located in the Niihama Oshima district of Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture, and is deeply revered by the local residents. Niihama City is located in eastern Ehime Prefecture and is known as an industrial city facing the Seto Inland Sea, but it is also a region that carefully preserves its ancient history and traditional culture.
Location and Basic Information
Oshima Hachiman Shrine is located in the Niihama-Oshima district of Niihama City and functions as a spiritual center for the community. As an officially recognized shrine belonging to the Ehime Prefectural Shrine Association, it is properly managed and operated.
While there are several Hachiman shrines in Niihama City, Oshima Hachiman Shrine is particularly known for its strong tradition of the Autumn Grand Festival. It is an indispensable part of the region’s history and forms a part of Niihama City’s cultural identity.
History of Oshima Hachiman Shrine
Founding and History
Hachiman shrines exist throughout Japan, and Hachiman worship is one of the most widespread beliefs in Japanese Shinto. Oshima Hachiman Shrine was founded based on this Hachiman worship and has been revered as the guardian deity of the region.
Hachiman, with Emperor Ojin as its principal deity, has been worshipped since ancient times as a god of war and a protector of the nation. In the eastern region of Ehime Prefecture, including Niihama City, the Hachiman faith spread along with the development of shipping and industry, and Hachiman shrines were built in each area.
Connection to the Niihama-Oshima District
The Niihama-Oshima district is one of the historically significant areas within Niihama City. Facing the Seto Inland Sea, this region has long been a center of fishing and shipping, and a faith praying for safety at sea and abundant catches has taken root.
Oshima Hachiman Shrine has attracted the faith of these local people and developed as a place of prayer for maritime safety, abundant harvests, and family safety. It has continued to preserve its faith to this day, adapting to the changes in the local community over time.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Main Deities
The main deities of Oshima Hachiman Shrine are gods based on the Hachiman faith. The following deities are enshrined in typical Hachiman shrines:
- Emperor Ōjin: The 15th Emperor and the central figure of Hachiman.
- Empress Jingū: The mother of Emperor Ōjin.
- Hime Ōkami: Considered one of the three Munakata goddesses.
Divine Virtues
Hachiman is believed to possess diverse divine virtues and is said to grant the following wishes:
- Long-lasting military fortune and victory: Due to his nature as a god of war, he is believed to bring blessings for success in competitions and passing exams.
- National peace and protection from evil: As a god of national protection, he wards off disasters and protects peace.
- Maritime safety: In coastal areas, prayers are especially offered for safety at sea.
- Family safety and prosperity of descendants: He protects the health and prosperity of the family.
- Industrial Development: Development of Local Industries and Business Prosperity
Niihama City is an industrial city with a history of copper mining, and many worshippers visit to pray for the safety and development of industry.
Oshima Hachiman Shrine Autumn Festival | The Original Saijo Danjiri “Yomiya”
Overview of the Autumn Festival
The most important annual event at Oshima Hachiman Shrine is the Autumn Festival, held every year on the second Saturday and Sunday of October. This festival is positioned as an important cultural event in Niihama City, and many spectators come from both within and outside the region.
What is “Yomiya”?
The most distinctive feature of the Oshima Hachiman Shrine Autumn Festival is the Danjiri procession called “Yomiya”. This Yomiya is considered the original form of the famous Saijo Danjiri in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, and is a traditional event of great historical value.
During the night festival, lantern-decorated floats parade through the darkness, creating a fantastical atmosphere. The sight of local young people pulling the floats amidst the resounding sounds of drums and gongs is truly breathtaking.
Relationship with Saijo Danjiri
The Saijo Festival, one of Ehime Prefecture’s representative festivals, is a magnificent and lavish festival known throughout Japan. The fact that its origins lie in the night festival of Oshima Hachiman Shrine holds significant cultural and historical importance.
Niihama City and Saijo City are adjacent, and cultural exchange was frequent. It is believed that their festival cultures developed through mutual influence. Visiting the night festival of Oshima Hachiman Shrine allows you to experience the roots of the Saijo Danjiri.
Festival Schedule and Contents
The Autumn Grand Festival is usually held according to the following schedule:
Saturday (Eve of the Festival)
- Performance of Shinto rituals
- Assembly and preparation of the festival floats
- Nighttime procession of the festival floats
Sunday (Main Festival)
- Main festival rituals
- Daytime procession of the festival floats
- Dedication ceremonies
- Return procession
Specific times and details may change from year to year, so it is recommended that those wishing to participate check in advance.
Annual Events and Festivals
Main Annual Events
At Oshima Hachiman Shrine, various Shinto rituals are performed throughout the year, in addition to the Autumn Grand Festival:
January
- Saitansai (New Year’s Day): Praying for peace in the new year
- Tondo-yaki: A traditional event where New Year’s decorations and amulets are burned
February
- Setsubun Festival: Praying for protection from evil and for good fortune
Spring
- Kinensai: Praying for a bountiful harvest
- Spring Annual Festival
Summer
- Natsukoshi no Oharae: Purifying oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past six months
October
- Autumn Grand Festival (Second Saturday and Sunday): The most important festival
November
- Shichi-Go-San Pilgrimage: Celebrating the growth of children
- Niiname-sai: Giving thanks for the harvest
December
- Year-End Purification Ceremony: Cleansing away the impurities of the year
- New Year’s Eve Festival: The end of the year
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Buildings
The shrine buildings of Oshima Hachiman Shrine are built in the traditional style of shrine architecture and are important structures that tell the story of the region’s history. The main hall and worship hall are well-maintained and welcome visitors.
Torii Gate
The torii gate, which marks the entrance to the sacred area, is a symbolic presence of the shrine. By passing through the torii gate, one becomes aware of the boundary between the secular world and the sacred realm, and can purify their heart before worshipping.
Subsidiary Shrines
Besides the main hall, there may be several subsidiary shrines and smaller shrines enshrined within the grounds. Each has its own specific divine virtues and addresses various wishes.
Sacred Trees and Nature
Shrines with long histories often retain ancient sacred trees and abundant nature, providing peace and tranquility to visitors.
How to Worship and Manners
Basic Worship Etiquette
Knowing the correct way to worship at a shrine will allow for a more heartfelt visit:
1. Bowing at the Torii Gate
Bow before passing through the torii gate to show respect for entering the sacred area.
2. Purification at the Water Basin
- Take the ladle with your right hand and purify your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Finally, stand the ladle upright and purify the handle.
3. Worship at the Main Hall
- Quietly place your offering in the offering box.
- Ring the bell if there is one.
- Two bows, two claps, one bow (two deep bows, two claps, one deep bow).
- After clapping, silently recite your wish.
4. Departure
After leaving the torii gate, turn around and bow.
Attire for Visiting the Shrine
Everyday clothing is acceptable, but please note the following:
- Wear clean clothing.
- Avoid overly revealing clothing.
- Comfortable clothing is recommended during festivals.
Photography Etiquette
- Do not take photos in areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main shrine.
- Be considerate of other worshippers.
- During festivals, take photos from a position that does not obstruct participants.
Access Information
Location
Niihama-Oshima area, Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture
*For detailed addresses, please check the Ehime Prefectural Shrine Association website or map search services.
Access by Public Transportation
By Train
- Take a walk or taxi from the nearest JR Yosan Line station.
- There are multiple stations within Niihama City, so we recommend checking a map.
By Bus
- Use local buses operating within Niihama City.
- It may be within walking distance from the bus stop.
Access by Car
By Expressway
- From the Matsuyama Expressway “Niihama IC,” head towards Niihama city center.
- Accessible from major roads such as National Route 11.
Parking
- There may be parking spaces on the shrine grounds or nearby, but congestion is expected during festivals.
- During the Autumn Grand Festival, using public transportation may be recommended.
Using Map Search
For the latest access information and accurate location, you can search using the following methods:
- Search for “Oshima Hachiman Shrine Niihama” on a map search service such as Google Maps.
- Enter the shrine name into your car navigation system.
- Check detailed information on the official website of the Ehime Prefectural Shrine Association.
Other Shrines and Temples in Niihama City
Besides Oshima Hachiman Shrine, Niihama City has many other shrines and temples. When visiting Niihama City, it’s recommended to explore other facilities as well.
Main Hachiman Shrines in Niihama City
Hachiman Shrine (Hachiman 2-chome)
- Location: 4-69, Hachiman 2-chome, Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture
- A historical shrine believed to have been founded during the Heian period
- Deities enshrined: Emperor Ojin, Empress Jingu, and Hime-no-Okami
- Known for its vast grounds and magnificent torii gate
- Located along Shikishima Street in the Kawahigashi district of Niihama City
In Niihama City, there are several shrines with different spellings, such as “Hachiman Shrine” and “Hachiman Shrine,” so it’s important to confirm the location before visiting.
Shrines Registered with the Ehime Prefectural Shrine Association
The Ehime Prefectural Shrine Association registers 96 shrines in Niihama City. Each shrine has its own unique history and characteristics, making them valuable resources for understanding local culture.
By using the Ehime Prefecture Shrine Association’s website, which allows you to search for shrines by prefecture, you can also obtain information on other shrines in Niihama City.
About Niihama City
Overview of Niihama City
Niihama City is a city with a population of approximately 110,000 located in the eastern part of Ehime Prefecture. Facing the Seto Inland Sea, it enjoys a mild climate.
Main Features:
- A mining and industrial city with a history of the Besshi Copper Mine
- The birthplace of the Sumitomo Group
- One of Shikoku’s leading industrial cities
- A place where rich nature and historical heritage coexist
History of Niihama City
The history of Niihama City is deeply intertwined with the Besshi Copper Mine, which opened in 1691. The Besshi Copper Mine, which operated for approximately 280 years from the Edo period to the Showa period, is an important industrial heritage that supported Japan’s modernization.
Along with the development of the copper mine, the town of Niihama grew significantly, attracting many people. Even today, many historical sites and facilities related to the Besshi Copper Mine remain in the city. ### Culture and Festivals of Niihama City
Niihama City is famous for its Niihama Taiko Festival, known for its “Taiko-dai” (drum floats). Held annually in mid-October, this festival is considered one of the three major festivals of Shikoku, with magnificent and ornate Taiko-dai parading through the city.
The Autumn Grand Festival of Oshima Hachiman Shrine also forms part of Niihama City’s rich festival culture.
Sightseeing and Attractions
Besshi Copper Mine Related Facilities
- Minepia Besshi: A theme park where you can learn about the history of the mine
- Tounaru: An industrial heritage site known as the “Machu Picchu of the East”
Nature and Leisure
- Besshi Line: A famous spot for autumn foliage
- Marine Park Niihama: A seaside park
Historical and Cultural Facilities
- Hirose Historical Museum: Commemorating those who contributed to the Besshi Copper Mine
- Niihama City Museum of Art: Akagane Museum
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Saijo City
Located east of Niihama City, Saijo City is famous for the aforementioned Saijo Festival. Since the night festival of Oshima Hachiman Shrine is considered the origin of the Saijo Danjiri float, you can feel the connection between the festival cultures of both cities.
Highlights of Saijo City:
- Mt. Ishizuchi: One of Japan’s seven sacred mountains, the highest peak in Western Japan
- Saijo Festival: A magnificent festival held in mid-October
- Uchinuki: A natural spring selected as one of Japan’s 100 best waters
Shikokuchuo City
Located west of Niihama City, this city is known for its paper industry.
Imabari City
Imabari City, famous for its towel industry, is also relatively close to Niihama City. It is also known as the starting point of the Shimanami Kaido, where you can enjoy the beautiful archipelago scenery of the Seto Inland Sea.
Precautions When Visiting
Crowds During the Festival
During the Autumn Grand Festival, more people than usual will visit, so please note the following:
- Parking lots are likely to be full
- Surrounding roads will be congested
- Public transportation is also expected to be crowded
- Aim to arrive early
Weather Precautions
October in Ehime Prefecture is relatively mild, but we recommend the following preparations:
- It will be warm during the day, but it can get cold at night
- Bring a jacket if you plan to visit the shrine at night
- Carry rain gear (as it is an outdoor event)
Safety Precautions
Please pay particular attention to the following during the festival:
- Do not enter the path of the festival floats
- Keep a close eye on small children
- Respect the designated viewing area
- Follow the instructions of the staff
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Other Items
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Many shrines offer goshuin as proof of your visit. You may be able to receive a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) at Oshima Hachiman Shrine, but please note the following:
- Bring your Goshuincho (stamp book)
- Request it at the reception area after your visit
- Prepare a donation (generally around 300-500 yen)
- They may not be able to accommodate requests during busy periods such as festivals
Items Available
They may offer items such as amulets, talismans, and votive tablets. Each has a different divine virtue, and you can choose according to your wishes.
Contact Information
For detailed and up-to-date information regarding Oshima Hachiman Shrine, please contact:
Ehime Prefecture Shrine Association
- Address: 1954-2 Minamikata, Toon City, Ehime Prefecture 791-0301
- Phone: 089-966-6640
- IP Phone: 050-3508-6540
- FAX: 089-966-5477
- Reception Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Parking: 70 spaces
The Ehime Prefecture Shrine Association provides information on shrines within the prefecture and offers a search service for festivals.
Summary
Oshima Hachiman Shrine is a historical shrine located in the Niihama-Oshima district of Niihama City, Ehime Prefecture. In particular, the Autumn Grand Festival, held annually on the second Saturday and Sunday of October, is known for its “Yomiya” (night festival), considered the prototype of the Saijo Danjiri festival, and is an important cultural event in the region.
The deities enshrined at Oshima Hachiman Shrine, based on the Hachiman faith, possess diverse divine virtues, including lasting military fortune, national peace and security, maritime safety, and family safety, and have attracted the faith of local residents. It is an important presence in understanding the history and culture of Niihama City and is a shrine well worth visiting.
When visiting Niihama City, be sure to visit Oshima Hachiman Shrine and experience the local history and traditions. Especially during the Autumn Grand Festival, it will be a precious opportunity to experience the fantastical atmosphere of the night festival.
When visiting, observing proper etiquette and manners, and offering your prayers with sincerity, will make for a more fulfilling experience. We recommend checking access methods in advance using map search services and visiting with plenty of time to spare.
