Complete Guide to Okamoto Shrine: The History and Charm of Japan’s Most Complex Roof Shrine, Dedicated to the Paper-Making God
About Okamoto Shrine
Okamoto Shrine is a shrine located in Otaki-cho, Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture. It is revered by paper industry professionals nationwide as the deity of paper. Sharing its grounds with Otaki Shrine, the two shrines together are known as “Okamoto Shrine and Otaki Shrine.”
The Only Shrine Dedicated to Kawakami Gozen, the Paper-Making God
The most distinctive feature of Okamoto Shrine is that it is the only shrine in Japan dedicated to Kawakami Gozen, the goddess who introduced papermaking techniques. It is deeply connected to legends surrounding the origin of Echizen washi (Japanese paper) and is still worshipped as the guardian deity of the Goka district (Otaki, Iwamoto, Furo, Shinzaike, and Sadatomo), a production area for Echizen washi.
According to legend, approximately 1500 years ago, during the reign of Emperor Keitai, a beautiful princess appeared upstream of the Okata River and taught the villagers the art of papermaking. This princess was none other than Kawakami Gozen, and the villagers, grateful for her teachings, built and enshrined the Okata Shrine.
A National Important Cultural Property with Japan’s Most Complex Roof
The Okata Shrine/Otaki Shrine’s lower shrine building is a late Edo period structure built in 1843 (Tenpo 14), and was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 1984 (Showa 59).
The most distinctive feature of this shrine is its unique structure, often referred to as “Japan’s most complex roof.” The complex, wave-like shape of the roof combines various styles such as irimoya (hip-and-gable roof), karahafu (curved gable), and chidorihafu (gable with a curved roof), displaying different appearances depending on the viewing angle. Its magnificent form, a culmination of shrine architecture, overwhelms visitors.
History of Okata Shrine
History from Founding to Ancient Times
There are several traditions regarding the founding of Okata Shrine. The oldest record states that it was founded during the reign of Emperor Yūryaku (457-479). Another theory suggests that during the “time of the dragon’s demise” before Emperor Keitai ascended to the throne, when the Kuzuryū River, Asuwa River, and Hino River were excavated as a flood control measure in the area, three deities—Taketsunumi-no-Mikoto, Kunisazuchi-no-Mikoto, and Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto—were enshrined, and the shrine was named “Okata-no-Miya.”
The Engishiki Jinmyōchō (compiled in 926) lists it as the oldest of the fourteen shrines in the former Imadate District, indicating that it was already recognized as an important shrine during the Heian period.
Relationship with Otaki Shrine
Otaki Shrine is said to have originated during the reign of Empress Suiko (592-638 AD) when Otomo no Muraji enshrined the deity. Initially separate shrines, it developed a deep connection with Okata Shrine over time, and now they are located on the same grounds and operated as a single entity.
While Okata Shrine serves as the guardian deity of the paper industry, Otaki Shrine has played the role of the guardian deity of the entire region. The festivals of both shrines are often held jointly, and they function as a central point of worship in the area.
Transition from Early Modern to Modern Periods
During the Edo period, it received patronage from the Echizen Domain, and its worship spread along with the development of the paper industry. The current shrine building was constructed in 1843 (Tenpo 14), a time when Echizen washi (Japanese paper) was at its peak, and the magnificent shrine was realized through donations from those involved in the paper industry.
Due to the Meiji-era decree separating Shinto and Buddhism, the temple facilities that had previously existed as a Jinguji (temple associated with a shrine) were abolished, but the worship of the shrine continued. Several restoration projects were carried out from the Meiji to Showa periods, preserving its current appearance.
Continued preservation and repair work has been carried out since the Heisei era, and efforts continue to pass on its value as a National Important Cultural Property to future generations.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Deities of Okata Shrine
Main Deity:
- Kawakami Gozen: A goddess who transmitted papermaking techniques. She is revered by those involved in the paper industry as the ancestral deity of paper.
Deities Enshrined Together:
- Taketsunumi-no-Mikoto: God of guidance, god of traffic safety
- Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto: Another name for Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, god of nation-building
- Kunisazuchi-no-Mikoto: God of land formation
Deities Enshrined at Ōtaki Shrine
Ōtaki Shrine enshrines several deities, including Kuninotokotachi-no-Mikoto, and serves as the guardian shrine for the entire region.
Divine Virtues
Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine are believed to possess the following divine virtues:
- Prosperity in the Paper Industry: Success in paper-related businesses and improvement of skills
- Industrial Development: Prosperity in all industries
- Improvement of Skills: Improvement of skills in arts, crafts, etc.
- Academic Achievement: Academic success, stemming from the relationship between paper and learning
- Protection from Misfortune and Good Fortune: Protection from misfortune as a guardian deity of the region
- Matchmaking: Success in finding a good partner, stemming from the legend of Kawakami Gozen
The Charm of the Shrine Architecture
The Most Complex Roof Structure in Japan
The lower shrine buildings of Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine are known for their complex roof structure. While adopting the Gongen-zukuri style, which integrates the main hall, worship hall, and offering hall into a single structure, the following distinctive roof elements are combined:
Roof Components:
- Large hipped roof
- Multiple curved gables
- Chidori gables
- Eaves of the portico
These elements are combined three-dimensionally to form a complex roof that displays completely different appearances depending on the viewing angle. The construction employs highly advanced architectural techniques, showcasing the pinnacle of Edo period shrine carpentry skills.
Artistic Value of Sculptural Decoration
The sculptural decorations throughout the shrine are another highlight. Traditional motifs such as dragons, lions, cranes, turtles, waves, clouds, and flowers and birds are carved in a three-dimensional and delicate manner.
Particularly noteworthy carvings:
- Main hall wooden brackets: Decorations modeled after the heads of lions and elephants
- Transom carvings: Openwork carvings depicting flowers, birds, wind, and moon
- Dragon on the rainbow beam: A dynamic dragon carving
- Side panels: Carvings depicting seasonal landscapes
These carvings are not merely decorative, but important elements that express the status of the shrine and the depth of faith.
Architectural Style Characteristics
While the shrine building is based on the Gongen-zukuri style, it has the following characteristics:
- Vermilion and black lacquer: A majestic color scheme based on vermilion and black
- Gold leaf decoration: Splendor created by gold leaf applied to key areas
- Bracket system: Structural beauty created by complex bracket systems
- Eaves curve: The graceful curve of the eaves
Even now, more than 180 years after its construction in 1843 (Tenpo 14), its beautiful appearance is maintained through regular restoration.
Inner Sanctuary and Village Shrine
Inner Sanctuary at the Mountaintop
Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine have a two-shrine structure consisting of an inner sanctuary at the mountaintop and a village shrine at the foot of the mountain.
Characteristics of the Inner Sanctuary:
- Located on the summit of Mt. Okata (Gongen-yama), approximately 300 meters above sea level
- An ancient shrine listed in the Engishiki Jinmyocho (a list of shrines compiled in the Heian period)
- A sacred space preserving primitive forms of worship
- A portable shrine procession takes place during the annual festival in May
The path to the inner sanctuary is steep, requiring a hike of about 40 minutes on foot. From the mountaintop, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Echizen Plain, and on clear days, you can even see the Sea of Japan.
Role of the Village Shrine
The village shrine functions as a place of daily worship and as the center of faith for those involved in the paper industry. The village shrine houses a nationally important cultural property, and is the place visited by many worshippers.
Facilities at the Village Shrine:
- Main Hall and Worship Hall (National Important Cultural Property)
- Kagura Hall
- Shrine Office
- Water Basin
- Shrine within the Precincts
Main Rituals and Festivals
Spring Grand Festival (Festival of Gods and Paper)
The Spring Grand Festival, held annually from May 3rd to 5th, is the most important festival of Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine, known as the “Festival of Gods and Paper.”
Main Events of the Festival:
May 3rd:
- Shinto ritual at the inner sanctuary
- Procession of the portable shrine to the lower shrine
- Procession of the portable shrine through the Goka district
May 4th:
- Grand festival ritual at the lower shrine
- Offering of gratitude to the paper-making deity
- Performance of Kagura (sacred dance and music)
- Offering of washi (Japanese paper)
May 5th:
- Return of the portable shrine to the inner sanctuary
- Shinto ritual at the mountaintop
Many papermakers and washi-related individuals from the Goka district participate in this festival, offering gratitude to the paper-making deity. Paper industry professionals from all over Japan also visit to pray for the prosperity of the industry.
Other Main Shinto Rites
New Year’s Day Festival (January 1st):
A Shinto ritual praying for peace in the new year and the development of industry. It is bustling with many worshippers.
Summer Purification Ceremony (June 30th):
A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past six months and pray for good health and protection from illness for the remaining half of the year. A ritual of passing through a ring of reeds is performed.
Autumn Festival (October):
A Shinto ritual to express gratitude for the harvest and pray for a bountiful harvest in the coming year.
Year-End Purification Ceremony (December 31st):
A Shinto ritual to purify oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past year and welcome the new year with purity.
Deep Connection with Echizen Washi Paper
The Legend of Kawakami Gozen
At the heart of the faith of Okata Shrine lies the legend of Kawakami Gozen.
According to the legend, approximately 1500 years ago, before Emperor Keitai ascended to the throne, a beautiful princess appeared in the upper reaches of the Okata River. The princess told the villagers, “This village has little land and you must be struggling to make ends meet. I will teach you the art of papermaking, so you can make it your livelihood.” She meticulously taught them everything about papermaking, from selecting the plants used as raw materials, to processing the fibers, and the techniques of papermaking itself.
After conveying her skills, the princess disappeared, saying, “I live upstream of the Okata River. Cherish and protect this technique, and strive to improve it.” The villagers called her Kawakami Gozen (Princess Kawakami), and in gratitude, they built the Okata Shrine and enshrined her as the ancestral deity of papermaking.
History and Development of Echizen Washi
Echizen Washi, originating from this legend, has become a leading Japanese papermaking region with a 1500-year history.
Characteristics of Echizen Washi Paper:
- Strong and beautiful paper quality
- Versatile for diverse uses
- Preservation of traditional techniques
- Development into modern uses
Known as a high-quality paper supplied to the imperial court during the Heian period, it was protected as an important industry of the domain during the Edo period. Since the Meiji era, while facing the wave of modernization, the traditional techniques have been preserved, and many papermakers continue to work, mainly in the Goka district.
Modern-day Worship of the Paper Ancestor Deity
Even today, Echizen washi papermakers deeply believe in Okata Shrine. The custom of visiting the shrine at significant life events related to paper—such as reporting the start of a new papermaking project, praying for improved techniques, and praying for business success—continues.
Furthermore, worshippers from various paper-related industries, including washi paper production areas nationwide, the printing industry, and the publishing industry, visit the shrine, and it is widely revered as the guardian deity of the industry.
Nearby Attractions
Echizen Washi Village
Located about a 5-minute drive from Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine, “Echizen Washi Village” is a group of facilities where you can experience the history and techniques of Echizen washi (Japanese paper).
Main Facilities:
- Udachi Craft Museum: A relocated and restored papermaking house from the Edo period, where you can observe demonstrations of traditional techniques.
- Papyrus Museum: A facility where you can experience papermaking. You can create your own original washi.
- Paper Culture Museum: Exhibits the 1500-year history of Echizen washi. Also houses valuable ancient documents and works of art.
Hanagatami Park
Located about a 10-minute drive from Okata Shrine, Hanagatami Park is a scenic spot known for its connection to Emperor Keitai.
Highlights:
- The setting for the legend of Emperor Keitai and Teruhinomae
- A famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall
- The setting for the Noh play “Hanagatami”
- The tranquil beauty of nature nestled in the mountains
Ajimano District
The Ajimano district, which flourished as the center of ancient Echizen Province, retains many historical legacies.
Main Historical Sites:
- Manyo no Sato Ajimanoen: A garden featuring plants mentioned in the Manyoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves)
- Injoji Temple: A temple associated with Murasaki Shikibu
- Ajimano Shrine: A shrine with a history dating back to ancient times
Visiting Information
Basic Information
Location:
23-10 Otaki-cho, Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture (Satomiya)
Otaki-cho, Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture (Okunoin)
Access:
By Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from Takefu IC on the Hokuriku Expressway
- Via Prefectural Road from National Route 8
- Free parking available (approximately 20 cars)
By Public Transportation:
- Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from JR Takefu Station
- Approximately 25 minutes by Fukui Railway Bus bound for “Washi no Sato” from JR Takefu Station, then a 5-minute walk from “Otaki” bus stop
- With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, access from Kanazawa Station has improved.
Visiting Hours:
- Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 17:00)
- Hiking to the inner sanctuary is recommended during daylight hours.
Admission Fee:
- Free
Points to Note When Visiting
Recommended Time to Visit:
- Spring (May): During the Spring Grand Festival. Experience the atmosphere of the festival.
- Season of Fresh Greenery (May-June): The mountains are beautifully green, making it ideal for hiking to the inner sanctuary.
- Autumn (October-November): The autumn leaves are beautiful, and the harmony between the shrine and nature is magnificent.
- Winter (January-February): The snow-covered shrine is fantastic. However, be careful of snow.
Photo Spots:
- Full view from the front of the main hall: Captures the entire complex roof structure.
- Diagonal side angle: Highlights the three-dimensional structure of the roof.
- From the stone steps within the grounds: A majestic view looking up at the shrine.
- View from the inner sanctuary: A magnificent view of the Echizen Plain.
Worship Manners:
- As it is a nationally important cultural property, do not touch the shrine building.
- Please be quiet within the grounds.
- Wear appropriate clothing and shoes when climbing to the inner sanctuary.
- Please take all your trash with you.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Items Offered
Goshuin:
Goshuin for Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine are available at the shrine office. Befitting a shrine dedicated to the god of paper, the goshuin written on beautiful Japanese paper are popular.
Main Items Offered:
- Amulets: For prosperity in the paper industry, academic success, protection from evil, etc.
- Talismans
- Ema (votive tablets): Designs related to the paper-making deity
- Washi (Japanese paper) products: Items made using local Echizen washi paper
Points to Note When Visiting Okata Shrine
Seasonal Precautions
Spring:
- The shrine gets crowded during the annual festival in May, and the parking lot may be full.
- Early morning visits are recommended.
Summer:
- Take thorough precautions against heatstroke when climbing to the inner sanctuary.
- Insect repellent is recommended.
Autumn:
- Tourist numbers increase during the autumn foliage season.
- Allow ample time when climbing to the inner sanctuary due to early sunsets.
Winter:
- Pay attention to road conditions when there is snow.
- Avoid climbing to the inner sanctuary as it is dangerous.
- Studded tires or chains are essential.
Estimated Time Required
- Visiting only the lower shrine: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Visiting the lower shrine and exploring the surrounding area: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Visiting the inner sanctuary: 2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours
- Combining this with sightseeing at Echizen Washi Village: Half a day to a full day
Summary
Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine are shrines with a 1500-year history as the ancestral deities of paper, supporting Japan’s paper culture. The shrine buildings, designated as important national cultural properties, boast the most complex roof in Japan and are works of art that showcase the pinnacle of Edo period architectural technology, overwhelming visitors.
As the only shrine dedicated to Kawakami Gozen, the goddess of paper, its history, intertwined with the development of Echizen washi paper, demonstrates the deep connection between traditional Japanese industries and faith. Even today, it attracts the faith of many people involved with paper and plays an important role as a guardian deity of the industry.
With the opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, access to Fukui Prefecture has improved, making Okata Shrine and Otaki Shrine important tourist spots to visit in conjunction with Echizen Washi Village. This shrine, with its magnificent architecture, abundant nature, and the opportunity to experience the 1500-year-old tradition of washi papermaking, is a place we hope many people will visit.
Okata Shrine embodies the gratitude of those who continue to preserve traditional techniques for paper. Its majestic appearance and profound history will surely make visitors appreciate the beauty of Japanese culture anew.
