Complete Guide to Betsugu Hachiman Shrine (Oita Prefecture): The History of Usa Jingu’s Branch Shrine and the Charm of its Rice Planting Festival
Betsugu Hachiman Shrine, located in Kakaji, Bungo-Takada City, Oita Prefecture, is a branch shrine of Usa Jingu, the head shrine of over 40,000 Hachiman shrines nationwide. It has long been revered as a center of faith on the Kunisaki Peninsula. It boasts the largest scale among the four existing branch shrines and has a history of over 1300 years since its founding during the Yoro era (717-724).
This article will introduce the charm of this historic shrine in its entirety, from its history, enshrined deities, and highlights within its grounds to the traditional rice planting festival, “Onbare,” held every July.
History and Origins of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine
Founding during the Yōrō Era and its Relationship with Usa Jingu Shrine
Regarding the founding of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine, the prevailing theory is that it was one of the five branch shrines of Usa Jingu Shrine established on the Kunisaki Peninsula during the Yōrō era (717-724). However, there is also a theory that it was founded in 858 (Ten’an 2), which speaks to a history of faith dating back to ancient times.
Usa Jingu Shrine is the head shrine of Hachiman shrines, founded in 725 (Shinki 2), and has been revered by the Imperial family as the second most important shrine after Ise Jingu Shrine. Betsugu Hachiman Shrine was an important base established to spread the divine power of Usa Jingu Shrine throughout the Kunisaki Peninsula.
Significance of the Betsugu System
The branch shrines of Usa Jingu Shrine were established in various locations on the Kunisaki Peninsula as shrines that enshrined a divided spirit of the deity of the main shrine. Originally, there are believed to have been five auxiliary shrines, but currently, four remain, with the Betsugu Hachiman Shrine being the largest.
The system of auxiliary shrines was a mechanism to expand the sphere of influence of Usa Jingu Shrine and allow local people to worship Hachiman more easily. The Betsugu Hachiman Shrine is located in Kakaji, a strategic transportation hub, and is thought to have also played a role in watching over maritime traffic.
Status as a Former Prefectural Shrine
Under the modern shrine ranking system of the Meiji era, the Betsugu Hachiman Shrine was ranked as a prefectural shrine. This means it was recognized as a shrine of high status within Oita Prefecture. The rank of prefectural shrine indicates that it was given an important position in the prefecture’s religious administration as a central shrine in the region.
Deities and Divine Virtues
The Betsugu Hachiman Shrine enshrines the same deities as Usa Jingu Shrine:
Main Deities
Hon-da-wake-no-mikoto
This is the central deity of Hachiman, the deified form of Emperor Ojin, the 15th emperor. He has been revered since ancient times as the god of military fortune and national protection, and is also worshipped as the god of industrial development and education.
Okinagatarashihime-no-mikoto
This refers to Empress Jingu, the mother of Emperor Ojin. She is deeply revered by women as the goddess of safe childbirth and child-rearing, and is also worshipped as a goddess who protects the nation.
Munakata Three Goddesses
- Ichikishima-hime-no-mikoto
- Tagori-hime-no-mikoto
- Tagitsu-hime-no-mikoto
The Munakata Three Goddesses are known as guardian deities of maritime traffic, and possess divine virtues of safe voyages and traffic safety. Because the Kunisaki Peninsula is a coastal region, it has played an important role in protecting the maritime safety of the local people.
Divine Virtues
The main divine virtues that can be prayed for at Betsugu Hachiman Shrine are as follows:
- Long-lasting military fortune and victory: The original divine virtue of Hachiman-sama
- National peace and security and protection from misfortune and good fortune: Faith in the god who protects the country
- Safe childbirth and child-rearing: The divine virtue of Empress Jingu
- Traffic safety and maritime safety: The divine virtue of the Munakata Three Goddesses
- Abundant harvests and abundant catches: Protection of local industries
- Academic success: Because Emperor Ojin is considered the founder of education
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
The grounds of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine are dotted with numerous cultural assets and points of interest that tell the story of its long history.
The Pine Forest Approach
The approach leading to Betsugu Hachiman Shrine is surrounded by a beautiful pine forest. This row of pine trees has a long history of welcoming worshippers, creating a solemn atmosphere as an entrance to the sacred grounds. Walking through the pine forest gives you the feeling of being led to a sacred space, far removed from everyday life.
Chokanbashi Bridge
Appearing as you proceed along the approach, Chokanbashi Bridge is one of the representative cultural assets of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine.
Features of Chokanbashi Bridge:
- Length: 10.7 meters
- Width: 2.8 meters
- Type: Arched stone bridge
- Construction Period: 1838 (Tenpo 9) – 1858 (Ansei 5)
This stone bridge, built over approximately 20 years, is a masterpiece that embodies the pinnacle of stone construction techniques from the late Edo period. The beautiful curves of the arch convey the high level of skill of the stonemasons of that time. The bridge’s name, “Shiokanbashi” (Tide-Viewing Bridge), is thought to originate from the fact that this area was close to the sea and a place where one could observe the ebb and flow of the tides.
Shrine Architecture
The shrine buildings of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine are the largest among the existing Betsugu shrines of Usa Jingu. The main hall, worship hall, and gatehouse, while having undergone several reconstructions throughout its long history, have maintained the traditional style of shrine architecture.
The layout of the shrine grounds is a dignified configuration influenced by Usa Jingu, with worshippers progressing gradually into the depths of the sacred area.
Subsidiary Shrines and Auxiliary Shrines
Several subsidiary shrines and auxiliary shrines are located around the main hall. These smaller shrines also attract local devotion, each with its own unique history and divine virtues. Paying respects at these subsidiary shrines in addition to the main hall allows for a deeper religious experience.
Onbare Rice Planting Festival: The Largest Festival of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine
The most famous event at Betsugu Hachiman Shrine is the Onbare Rice Planting Festival, held annually on July 29th and 30th.
History and Significance of Onbare
The Onbare Rice Planting Festival is a traditional Japanese agricultural ritual praying for a bountiful harvest. The unique name “Onbare” is thought to be a remnant of local dialect or an old word. This festival has a history of several hundred years and is a valuable intangible cultural heritage that conveys the agricultural culture of the Kunisaki Peninsula to the present day.
Festival Contents
The Onbare Rice Planting Festival includes a Shinto ritual that mimics actual rice planting. The main contents are as follows:
Flow of the Shinto Ritual:
- Purification Ceremony: A ritual to purify the festival grounds and participants.
- Recitation of Prayers: A Shinto priest prays for a bountiful harvest.
- Rice Planting Ritual: A mock rice planting ceremony performed by women in the role of Saotome (rice planting maidens).
- Rice Planting Song: A traditional rice planting song is offered.
- Kagura Performance: A dance performed to pray for a good harvest.
Connections with the Local Community
Onbare is more than just a religious event; it’s an important opportunity to deepen the bonds of the local community. Local residents participate wholeheartedly in the preparation and operation of the festival, fostering intergenerational exchange.
In recent years, the number of participants from urban areas and tourists has increased, and it’s attracting attention as a valuable opportunity to experience traditional Japanese culture. During the festival, stalls line the shrine grounds, where you can enjoy local specialties and regional cuisine.
Festival Highlights
- Saotome Costumes: The sight of Saotome (young women planting rice) dressed in traditional farming attire.
- Rice Planting Songs: Songs with a unique melody passed down through generations.
- Kagura: Performance of traditional performing arts passed down in the region.
- Night Festival: A fantastical atmosphere from dusk onwards.
Cultural Assets and Historical Value
Betsugu Hachiman Shrine preserves numerous cultural assets that tell the story of its long history.
Buildings
Many of the buildings on the shrine grounds, including the aforementioned Shiokan Bridge, were constructed from the Edo period to the early Showa period, conveying the architectural techniques and religious practices of that time.
Ancient Documents and Records
The shrine office houses ancient documents related to the shrine’s history and rituals. These documents are valuable historical materials for studying the development of Hachiman worship on the Kunisaki Peninsula and the history of the local community.
Ritual Objects and Offerings
Numerous ritual objects and offerings, dedicated throughout its long history, are carefully preserved as cultural assets of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine. These also serve as evidence of the depth of faith and the economic strength of the region at that time.
Annual Events and Rituals
In addition to the Rice Planting Festival, various rituals are held throughout the year at Betsugu Hachiman Shrine.
Main Annual Events
January
- New Year’s Day Festival: A celebration of the New Year
- First Shrine Visit of the Year: A bustling festival with many worshippers
February
- Setsubun Festival: Prayers for protection from evil and for good fortune
Spring Equinox
- Spring Festival: Thanksgiving for the arrival of spring
July 29th & 30th
- Rice Planting Festival (Onbare): The largest festival of the year
Autumn Equinox
- Autumn Festival: Thanksgiving for the harvest
November
- Niiname-sai Festival: Offering of new grain to the gods
December
- Oharai Ceremony: Purification of the year’s impurities
These rituals maintain the form of traditional Japanese annual events while incorporating regional characteristics.
Information for Visitors
Basic Information
Location
Kakaji, Bungo-Takada City, Oita Prefecture
Shrine Rank
Former Prefectural Shrine
Deities Enshrined
Homudawake-no-Mikoto, Okinagatarashihime-no-Mikoto, Munakata Three Goddesses (Ichikishimahime-no-Mikoto, Tagorihime-no-Mikoto, Takitsuhime-no-Mikoto)
Visiting Hours
Grounds are freely accessible (Please check the reception hours of the shrine office)
Access
Access by Car
- Approximately 30 minutes from the Usa IC on the Higashi-Kyushu Expressway
- Along National Route 213, in the Kakaji area
- Parking: Visitor parking available on the grounds
Access by Public Transportation
- Approximately 40 minutes by bus from Usa Station on the JR Nippo Main Line
- Bungo-Takada City Community Bus available
- Taxis are also convenient
Manners for Visiting
- Bow at the Torii Gate: Bow before entering the shrine grounds.
- Purification at the water basin: Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth.
- How to walk along the approach to the shrine: The center is the path for the gods; walk along the sides.
- How to bow: Two bows, two claps, one bow.
- Silence within the shrine grounds: Be mindful that this is a sacred area.
Nearby Tourist Spots
When visiting Betsugu Hachiman Shrine, we recommend also visiting nearby tourist spots.
Showa Town (Central Bungo Takada City)
In the center of Bungo Takada City, there is “Showa Town,” which recreates the townscape of the 1950s. You can enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere while strolling through the retro shopping street. It is about a 20-minute drive from Betsugu Hachiman Shrine.
Matama Coast
Matama Coast, selected as one of “Japan’s Top 100 Sunset Spots,” is known for the beauty of the sunset reflected on the tidal flats. Located about 15 minutes by car from Betsugu Hachiman Shrine, it’s ideal for sightseeing after your visit.
Other Betsugu Shrines on the Kunisaki Peninsula
If you have time, why not visit the other existing Betsugu shrines of Usa Jingu on the Kunisaki Peninsula? Each has its own unique history and charm.
Usa Jingu Shrine
Usa Jingu Shrine, the main shrine of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine, is about 40 minutes away by car. Visiting the head shrine of Hachiman faith will allow for a deeper religious experience.
The Modern Significance of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine
As a Center of Local Faith
Betsugu Hachiman Shrine continues to be a center of faith for local residents. Many people visit the shrine during important life events such as a baby’s first shrine visit, Shichi-Go-San (a traditional rite of passage for children), and exorcisms. It plays an important role as a spiritual pillar of the local community.
A Place for Cultural Inheritance
Traditional events, including the Otaue Festival (rice planting festival), serve as a place for cultural inheritance to future generations. Children participating in the festival naturally learn about the history and traditions of the region, fostering a love for their hometown.
Value as a Tourist Resource
In recent years, with the growing interest in historical shrines and temples, Betsugu Hachiman Shrine has also attracted attention as an important tourist resource. As a spot where visitors can experience the history and culture of the Kunisaki Peninsula, the number of visitors from outside the prefecture is increasing.
A Place of Peace
For those seeking peace of mind and escaping the stresses of modern society, the tranquil grounds of Betsugu Hachiman Shrine are a precious healing space. Walking along the path surrounded by pine trees, crossing the old stone bridge, and offering prayers before the shrine, one can find inner peace.
The Significance of Visiting Betsugu Hachiman Shrine
Betsugu Hachiman Shrine is not merely a historical building or tourist spot. It is a living place of faith that has walked alongside the local people for over 1300 years.
Since its founding during the Yoro era, the people of the Kunisaki Peninsula have prayed at Betsugu Hachiman Shrine for abundant harvests, family safety, and prosperity of descendants. The prayers continue unchanged to this day, conveying to visitors the essence of traditional Japanese faith.
As a sub-shrine of Usa Jingu, and the largest of the four existing sub-shrines, Betsugu Hachiman Shrine is an important site for understanding the history of Hachiman faith. Cultural assets such as the Shiokan Bridge showcase the high level of stonework techniques of the Edo period, and the Otaue Festival offers an experience of the origins of Japanese agricultural culture.
When visiting the Kunisaki Peninsula, be sure to visit Betsugu Hachiman Shrine. Walking along the pine-lined path, crossing the Shiokan Bridge, and quietly offering your prayers, you will feel the weight of the faith woven over 1300 years of history and the dedication of the people who have preserved it.
Summary
Betsugu Hachiman Shrine (Bungo Takada City, Oita Prefecture) is a historic shrine founded during the Yoro era as a sub-shrine of Usa Jingu, and the largest of the four existing sub-shrines. This shrine enshrines Emperor Ojin (Homudawake no Mikoto), Empress Okinagatarashihime no Mikoto, and the three Munakata goddesses, and is believed to bestow blessings for military success, safe childbirth and child-rearing, and traffic safety.
Within the shrine grounds is the beautiful arched stone bridge, Shiokanbashi, built between the Tenpo and Ansei periods, which, along with the pine-lined approach to the shrine, captivates visitors. The Onbare Rice Planting Festival, held annually on July 29th and 30th, is a traditional festival cherished by the local community as a prayer for a bountiful harvest.
With its former status as a prefectural shrine, it remains a center of Hachiman worship on the Kunisaki Peninsula, welcoming many worshippers even today. Betsugu Hachiman Shrine, steeped in history and tradition, is one of Oita Prefecture’s representative shrines and well worth a visit.
