About Ryuko Myojin Shrine
Ryuko Myojin Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Koshigoe, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and is said to be the oldest shrine in Kamakura. Situated in a prime location across from Enoshima Island, it is affectionately known locally as “Ryuko-sama” or “Gongoro-sama.”
It is said to have been founded in 552 (the 13th year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign), boasting a history of over 1400 years. The main deity enshrined is Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa, who has been worshipped as a god of martial prowess and healing of eye diseases.
History and Origins
Origin of Founding
According to shrine tradition, during the reign of Emperor Kinmei, a five-headed dragon lived in a cave on Enoshima Island, tormenting the villagers. Legend says that Benzaiten appeared and reformed the dragon. The shrine dedicated to this five-headed dragon is considered the origin of Ryuko Myojin Shrine.
Deep Connection to Nichiren Shonin
This shrine is known as the site of the “Tatsunokuchi Persecution,” where Nichiren Shonin was nearly executed on September 12, 1271 (Bun’ei 8). It is said that a miracle occurred just before the execution, when light shone from the direction of Enoshima, halting the execution. This makes it an important sacred site for Nichiren Buddhist followers.
Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa
Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa, a warrior of the late Heian period, is known as a brave general who fought valiantly despite being struck in the right eye by an arrow during the Later Three Years’ War. His martial prowess and indomitable spirit are celebrated, and he is enshrined as the main deity.
Benefits and Divine Virtues
Tatsunokuchi Myojin Shrine is believed to bestow a variety of blessings.
Main Benefits
- Protection from Misfortune and Misfortune: Revered since ancient times as a god who wards off misfortune.
- Healing of Eye Diseases: Famous for its blessings of healing eye diseases, stemming from the story of Lord Gongoro Kagemasa who was struck in the eye by an arrow.
- Good Fortune and Long-lasting Military Luck: Seeking blessings from the bravery of Lord Kagemasa as a warrior.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: The protection of the dragon god, originating from the legend of the Five-Headed Dragon.
- Matchmaking: Also worshipped for matchmaking due to the connection between Benzaiten and dragons.
- Traffic Safety: A popular guardian deity of the region, with many people praying for traffic safety.
Reasons for Particular Reverence
During the Edo period, it was widely worshipped as the “God of Eyes,” and people suffering from eye diseases came from all over the country to worship. Even today, many ophthalmologists and people involved in eyeglasses visit the shrine.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall and Worship Hall
The main hall, retaining the architectural style of the mid-Edo period, is a historically valuable building with beautiful carvings. The worship hall has an open design that warmly welcomes visitors.
Relationship with Ryukoji Temple
Ryukoji Temple, the head temple of the Nichiren sect, is located right next to the shrine, giving a sense of the remnants of the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism. Visiting both will provide a deeper historical experience.
Stone Walls and Stone Monuments
Numerous stone walls and stone monuments from the Edo period remain on the shrine grounds, testifying to the deep faith of the time.
Points to Note When Visiting a Shrine
Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Left hand → Right hand → Mouth → Handle of left hand in that order.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall: Following the basic etiquette of Shinto.
- Be specific with your wishes: Recite your address and name silently before praying.
Recommended Times to Visit
- Early Morning (8:00-9:00): You can pray peacefully in silence.
- Weekday Mornings: Recommended for those who want to avoid crowds.
- Evening (16:00-17:00): A beautiful time to see the sunset towards Enoshima.
Annual Events
- January 1st: Saitansai (New Year’s Day Festival)
- September 18th: Annual Grand Festival (Anniversary of the death of Kamakura Gongoro Kagemasa)
- Mid-September: Joint Ryunokuchi Persecution Memorial Service with Ryukoji Temple
Items Offered
- Eye Amulet: Popular as an amulet for healing eye diseases
- Victory Amulet: For those wishing for success in competitions or passing exams
- Goshuin (Temple Seal): Characterized by its powerful calligraphy
Access Information
Access by Train
Enoshima Electric Railway (Enoden)
- 3-minute walk from “Enoshima Station”
- 5-minute walk from “Koshigoe Station”
Shonan Monorail
- 6-minute walk from “Shonan Enoshima Station”
Odakyu Enoshima Line
- 8-minute walk from “Katase Enoshima Station”
Access by Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Asahina IC” on the Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Shin-Shonan Bypass “Chigasaki Kaigan IC”
Parking: Only a few dedicated parking spaces are available. We recommend using nearby coin-operated parking lots.
Combinations with Nearby Facilities
- Enoshima: 10-minute walk to Enoshima Bridge
- Ryukoji Temple: Adjacent (1-minute walk)
- Koshigoe Fishing Port: 5-minute walk, enjoy fresh seafood
Points to Note When Visiting
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is generally open 9:00-17:00)
- Dress Code: There are no specific regulations, but please dress appropriately as it is a sacred place.
- Photography: Photography is permitted outside the main hall, but please be considerate of other visitors.
- Pets: Pets are allowed on the grounds if on a leash, but are not permitted in the worship hall.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
After visiting Ryuguchi Myojin Shrine, be sure to enjoy the surrounding tourist attractions as well.
- Enoshima: A scenic spot home to Enoshima Shrine, one of Japan’s three major Benzaiten shrines.
- Kodo Shrine: A small shrine associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo.
- Koshigoe Beach: A beach bustling with surfers and swimmers.
- Kamakura High School Crossing: A scenic spot famous as a pilgrimage site for anime fans.
Summary
Ryukuchi Myojin Shrine, with its history spanning over 1400 years, is the oldest shrine in Kamakura and continues to attract many visitors. Visitors come for various reasons, including those seeking healing from eye diseases and protection from evil, those tracing the footsteps of Nichiren Shonin, and those stopping by while sightseeing in Enoshima.
Despite its convenient location just a 3-minute walk from Enoshima Station, the shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Please visit Ryukuchi Myojin Shrine to experience historical romance, blessings, and the refreshing Shonan breeze.
