Kasagami Shrine (Mino City, Gifu Prefecture) Complete Guide | Deities, History, Benefits, and Access Information
About Kasagami Shrine
Kasagami Shrine is a historical shrine located at 588 and 589 Kasagami, Mino City, Gifu Prefecture. It is known as one of the shrines associated with the “Moyama Legend,” scattered around Mt. Tenno, situated between the Itadori River and the Mugi River. It is designated as a Silver Coin Shrine under the Gifu Prefectural Shrine Association’s shrine ranking system, and its former rank was Village Shrine.
Kasagami Shrine, which has long been revered as a center of local faith, enshrines five deities appearing in the myths of the age of the gods as its main deities, preserving its unique historical background and regional culture.
Deities Enshrined
Five deities are enshrined at Kasagami Shrine.
Shitateruhime-no-Mikoto
Shitateruhime-no-Mikoto, the principal deity enshrined here, is the daughter of Ōkuninushi-no-Kami and the wife of Ama-no-Wakahiko-no-Mikoto. Her beauty is said to have shone so brightly that it reached the heavens, giving rise to her name “Shitateru” (meaning “shining down”). She is believed to bring blessings for matchmaking, marital harmony, and beauty.
Ama-no-Wakahiko-no-Mikoto
He is a god sent to the earthly realm before the descent of the heavenly grandchild, and is known for the myth of his union with Shitateruhime-no-Mikoto. He is worshipped as a god who played an important role in Japanese mythology.
Ajishikitakahikone-no-Mikoto
He is the elder brother of Shitateruhime-no-Mikoto and a son of Ōkuninushi-no-Kami. He is revered as the god of agriculture and industry, and is particularly known as the god who presides over agricultural tools. He is believed to bring blessings for abundant harvests and industrial development.
Mitaraihime-no-Mikoto
A goddess who presides over purity, she is believed to possess the power to purify and cleanse away defilement. She is worshipped for her blessings of good health and protection from evil.
Hime-no-Mikoto
This is a general term for goddesses, and she is worshipped as a guardian deity of women.
These five enshrined deities are all gods that appear in mythology from the age of the gods, indicating that Kamigami Shrine has been a center of worship since ancient times.
History and Origins
Founding and Ancient Beliefs
The exact founding date of Kamigami Shrine is unclear, but it is believed that the “Jusanmi Kasagami Myojin” recorded in the Mugi-gun Jinmyocho (a list of shrines in Mugi-gun) refers to this shrine. This record suggests that it has been an important center of worship in the region since ancient times.
It has a continuous history of faith dating back to the age of the gods and has functioned as a spiritual pillar for the people of the region.
Flood and Relocation during the Enpo Era
A significant turning point in the history of Kamigami Shrine was the flood that occurred during the Enpo era (1673-1681). This large-scale natural disaster damaged the shrine buildings that were enshrined at the old site.
This flood prompted the relocation of the shrine to its current location. This relocation was not merely a change of location, but also an expression of the faith of the people who prayed for the safety and prosperity of the region.
Development during the Edo Period
During the Genroku era (1688-1704), records show that the shrine received deep reverence from influential figures in the region, including a donation made to the shrine by Lord Saburi Genya. Throughout the Edo period, Kamigami Shrine continued to develop as the spiritual center of the Kasagami region.
Changes after the Meiji Era
With the establishment of a modern shrine system during the Meiji era, Kamigami Shrine was ranked as a village shrine. This signified the official recognition of the shrine’s importance in the region.
Since the Showa era, the shrine has been designated a Silver Coin Shrine under the Gifu Prefectural Shrine Association’s shrine ranking system, and has maintained that status to this day.
Connection to the Mōzan Legend
An ancient legend known as the “Mōzan Legend” remains in the area around Mt. Tennō, where Kamikami Shrine is located. This legend has a common origin shared by several shrines scattered in the region between the Itadori River and the Mugi River.
The Mōzan Legend is deeply connected to the myth of the death and funeral of Ame-no-Wakahiko-no-Mikoto. According to tradition, when Ame-no-Wakahiko-no-Mikoto died on earth, the gods who mourned him gathered in this place. Kamikami Shrine and the surrounding group of shrines are important places of worship that convey this mythical event to the present day.
Due to this legend, Kamikami Shrine is positioned not merely as a local guardian shrine, but as a sacred place directly connected to Japanese mythology.
Benefits
At Kamikami Shrine, you can receive a variety of benefits through the divine virtues of each of the five enshrined deities.
Matchmaking and Marital Harmony
Because this shrine enshrines the divine couple Shita-teruhime-no-Mikoto and Ama-no-Wakahiko-no-Mikoto, it is particularly known for its blessings of matchmaking and marital harmony. Those seeking good relationships and those wishing for family harmony visit the shrine.
Abundant Harvests and Industrial Development
Through the divine virtues of Ajisukitakahikone-no-Mikoto, prayers can be offered for agricultural prosperity and industrial development. It enjoys strong faith from local farmers and business owners, who pray for bountiful harvests and business success.
Protection from Evil and Health Prayers
Due to the purifying power of Mitaraihime-no-Mikoto, it is believed to offer blessings for protection from evil and for good health. Many visitors come to pray for recovery from illness and safety for their families.
Protection of Women
Because it enshrines multiple goddesses, there is also a belief in seeking protection for women in various aspects of their lives. Prayers are offered for safe childbirth, child-rearing, and women’s health.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall
The main hall, which has stood in its current location since its relocation during the Enpo era (1673-1684), is the central structure of Kamikami Shrine. Its historical presence reflects the deep faith of the local community.
Shrine Grove
The shrine grove surrounding the grounds has preserved its ancient natural state, creating a tranquil atmosphere befitting a sacred area. It is a peaceful space where one can feel the changing seasons.
Site of the Old Shrine
The site of the old shrine, where the shrine stood before the flood of the Enpo era (1673-1684), is an important place that tells the history of Kamikami Shrine. Traces of it can still be traced today, allowing one to feel the changes the shrine has undergone.
Annual Events
Kamikami Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year. These events strengthen the bonds of the local community and play an important role in passing on traditional culture to future generations.
Site of the Old Shrine
From the annual festival in which the entire community participates, to seasonal prayer ceremonies, ancient traditions are preserved.
Shrine System and Positioning
Kamigami Shrine is a shrine belonging to the Gifu Prefectural Shrine Association and holds the rank of Ginpei-sha. Ginpei-sha is a rank in the Gifu Prefectural Shrine Association’s unique shrine ranking system, given to shrines that hold an important position among the shrines in the prefecture.
Under the old shrine ranking system, it was ranked as a village shrine and has played a central role in the faith of the local residents as the guardian shrine of the Kasagami area.
Access and Transportation Information
Location
588 and 589 Kasagami, Mino City, Gifu Prefecture 501-3764
Access by Car
It is approximately 15 minutes from the Mino IC on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway. It can be accessed from Mino city center via National Route 156. There is parking space for visitors on the shrine grounds, making it convenient to visit by car. ### Access by Public Transportation
The nearest station is Mino-shi Station on the Nagaragawa Railway. You can access the shrine by taxi or bus from the station, but since the number of services is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Nearby Attractions
Mino City is a historical town known for its “Udatsu-lined streets.” Along with visiting Kamigami Shrine, a stroll through the townscape, which retains the atmosphere of Edo-period merchant houses, is highly recommended. It is also famous as the home of Mino Washi paper, where you can experience traditional crafts.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
Basic Etiquette for Visiting Shrines
When visiting Kamigami Shrine, please observe the following basic etiquette.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin.
- Walk along the approach to the shrine, avoiding the center.
- Perform “two bows, two claps, one bow” in front of the main hall.
- Bow again at the torii gate when leaving.
Attire for Visiting the Shrine
While special formal attire is not required, please dress in clean clothing that is respectful to the gods. Avoid revealing clothing and dress modestly when visiting the shrine.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but there are areas where photography is restricted, such as inside the main hall. If unsure, please check with the shrine office. It is also important to be considerate of other visitors.
Cultural Value of Kamikami Shrine
Kamikami Shrine is not merely a religious facility, but also an important cultural asset that conveys the history and culture of the region.
Preservation of the Mōyama Legend
Kamigami Shrine, which preserves the Mōyama legend intertwined with Japanese mythology, is a valuable resource for studying ancient forms of belief and mythological traditions. It plays a crucial role in preserving this unique local legend and passing it on to future generations.
Core of the Local Community
As the local guardian shrine since the Edo period, Kamigami Shrine has played a central role in the formation of the Kasagami community. Through festivals, the bonds among local residents are strengthened, and traditional culture is passed down.
Preservation of the Natural Environment
The shrine’s forest also plays a vital role in preserving a valuable natural environment in today’s increasingly developed world. Ancient trees and vegetation are protected, contributing to the maintenance of biodiversity.
Relationship with Neighboring Shrines
Several shrines with origins in the Mōyama legend are scattered around Tennōzan, where Kamigami Shrine is located. While each of these shrines is an independent place of worship, they are connected by a common mythological background, forming a unique religious sphere specific to this region.
Nestled between the Itadori River and the Mugi River, this area has been recognized as a sacred place since ancient times, and Kamigami Shrine is positioned as one of its central locations.
Message to Visitors
Kamigami Shrine is a shrine where a deep history dating back to the age of the gods coexists with a warm faith deeply rooted in the community. The five enshrined deities watch over visitors with their respective divine virtues, and respond to various wishes.
Since overcoming the ordeal of a flood during the Enpo era and relocating to its current location, Kamigami Shrine has been a spiritual haven for the people of the region for hundreds of years. Stepping into its tranquil grounds, you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, find peace of mind, and have a time to converse with the gods.
When you visit Mino City, please be sure to visit Kamigami Shrine. A visit to this historic shrine will surely become a memorable experience.
Summary
Kasagami Shrine, located in Kasagami, Mino City, Gifu Prefecture, is a historic shrine dedicated to five deities, including Shita-teruhime-no-Mikoto. It is an ancient shrine listed in the Mugi-gun Jinmyocho (a historical record of shrines in Mugi County) and possesses a unique history intertwined with the Japanese mythology of the Mōzan legend.
Since its relocation to its current site after a flood during the Enpō era, it has been revered as the guardian shrine of the region and is designated a Silver Coin Shrine by the Gifu Prefectural Shrine Association. It offers various blessings, including matchmaking, marital harmony, abundant harvests, and protection from evil, attracting worshippers not only from the local area but also from afar.
Surrounded by the rich nature and historic townscape of Mino City, Kasagami Shrine is a shrine well worth visiting, offering a sense of peace and profound faith.
