Complete Guide to Ontake Shrines: Sacred Sites and Worship Methods of Ontake Faith Across Japan
What are Ontake Shrines?
Ontake Shrines (also known as Mitake Jinja or Ontake Jinja) are shrines with a unique form of worship that fuses Japanese mountain worship and Shugendo (mountain asceticism). They exist throughout Japan, each situated against the backdrop of a local sacred mountain, and have attracted the faith of people since ancient times.
The name Ontake Shrine primarily originates from shrines dedicated to Zaō Gongen. Following the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism, many temples and shrines that had flourished as sacred sites of Shugendo were renamed “Ontake Shrine,” “Kinbu Shrine,” “Zaō Shrine,” etc. Even today, they remain valuable cultural heritage sites with a strong presence of syncretic Shinto-Buddhist belief, attracting devout worshippers from across the Kanto region and throughout Japan.
Characteristics of Ontake Faith
The most distinctive feature of Ontake faith lies in its combination of mountain worship, which sanctifies the mountain itself, and the practical ascetic practices of Shugendo. Believers are clad in white robes and form organizations called “kosha” to worship in groups. This tradition continues to this day, and especially in summer, many believers head to Ontake shrines in mountainous areas.
Major Ontake Shrines
Musashi Ontake Shrine (Ome City, Tokyo)
Located on the summit of Mount Ontake, at an altitude of 929 meters, Musashi Ontake Shrine is one of the most famous Ontake shrines in the Kanto region. Its origins are said to date back to 736 AD (Tenpyo 8), when Gyoki Bodhisattva built a hall on this site and enshrined Zaō Gongen.
As a sacred site for Shugendo, where the mountain spirit is worshipped, and as the mountain where the national spirit of Musashi Province descended from heaven, it has been the site of provincial government rituals since ancient times. As a sacred mountain protecting agriculture in the Kanto Plain, and as a mountain dedicated to Yamato Takeru, the god of war, Musashi Mitake Shrine holds ancient and venerable festivals throughout the year.
Highlights of Musashi Mitake Shrine
The breathtaking view overlooking the entire Kanto region from the mountaintop deeply moves visitors. The adjacent Treasure Hall displays numerous valuable items, including national treasures, making it a shrine of great historical value. Access to Mount Mitake is via cable car, and lodging facilities are scattered throughout the mountain village.
Mitake Shrine (Nagano Prefecture, Mount Kiso Mitake)
Mitake Shrine, which enshrines the sacred Mount Mitake (3,067 meters above sea level), was founded in 702 AD (Taiho 2) during the reign of Emperor Monmu by Takane Michimoto, the governor of Shinano Province, with its summit shrine built there.
Mount Ontake has been revered as a sacred mountain since ancient times and has developed as a center of mountain worship. Along the hiking trails, in addition to shrines maintained by Ontake Shrine, there are numerous sacred sites dedicated to deities and Buddhas invited by ascetics, as well as sites honoring ascetics and followers of the Ontake-ko (Ontake religious association), reflecting a strong syncretic belief system of Shinto and Buddhism.
The Belief System of Mount Ontake
Ontake Shrine has an inner shrine at the summit, a village shrine at the foot of the mountain, three shrines in Kamijima, Otaki Village, and a Wakamiya (young shrine) and main shrine in Kurosawa, Mitake Village. The enshrined deities are Kunitokotachi-no-Mikoto, Onamuchi-no-Mikoto, and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, worshipped as miraculous gods who bestow wisdom and talent, protect longevity, heal illnesses and calamities, and preside over protection against evil.
Every summer, the shrine is bustling with worshippers called “kosha” dressed in white robes, demonstrating the enduring tradition of mountain worship.
Yokohama Ontake Shrine (Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
Located in Kamigocho, Sakae Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama Ontake Shrine is a beloved center of Ontake worship in urban areas. Its convenient access makes it a popular destination for daily worship.
Ikebukuro Ontake Shrine (Toshima Ward, Tokyo)
Located in Ikebukuro 3-chome, Toshima Ward, Tokyo, Ikebukuro Ontake Shrine is a central location for Ontake worship in the heart of Tokyo. Prayers for safe childbirth and protection from evil are offered, and various festivals are held throughout the year, including New Year’s visits, Setsubun (bean-throwing festival), and other celebrations.
Ontake Shrine (Sakura Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture)
Ontake Shrine, located in Tajima, Sakura Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, is an ancient shrine said to have been founded in April of the 3rd year of Einin (Kamakura period), during the reign of Emperor Fushimi, the 92nd emperor of Japan.
Of particular note is the history of Fukan Gyōja, the founder of the Ōtaki entrance to Mount Ontake in Kiso, who performed fundamental ascetic training at this shrine during the Tenmei era (Edo period). Fukan Gyōja was an important figure who improved the climbing trails of Mount Ontake and opened the way for ordinary people to climb the mountain, and this shrine occupies an important position in the history of Ontake faith.
Ontake Shrine (Ōta Ward, Tokyo)
Ontake Shrine, located in Ōta Ward, Tokyo, is said to have been founded as Ontake Shrine around the 4th year of Tenbun (1535). During the Bunsei era (1818-1830), Issan Gyōja, a Shugendō practitioner from Mount Kiso Ontake, revealed that this shrine was a manifestation of the Great God of Mount Kiso Ontake.
Deities enshrined at Ontake Shrine
While the deities enshrined at Ontake Shrines vary slightly from shrine to shrine, the following gods are primarily worshipped:
Kunitokotachi-no-Mikoto
A god who appeared at the creation of heaven and earth in Japanese mythology, and is considered the god who governs the origin of the land. He is positioned as the most important god in Ontake faith.
Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto
Another name for Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, known as the god of nation-building. He is also worshipped as the god of medicine, agriculture, and commerce.
Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto
A deity who, along with Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, played a key role in nation-building. He is worshipped as the god of medicine, hot springs, and sake brewing. He is depicted as a small, wise deity.
These enshrined deities are worshipped as benevolent gods who bestow wisdom and talent, protect longevity, heal illnesses and calamities, and preside over exorcisms. They are believed to grant people’s various wishes.
Relationship with Zaō Gongen
Before the Meiji era, many Ontake Shrines enshrined Zaō Gongen. Zaō Gongen is a syncretic deity unique to Shugendō (mountain asceticism), representing a combination of Shakyamuni Buddha, Thousand-Armed Kannon, and Maitreya Bodhisattva. After the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, he came to be worshipped as a Shinto deity such as Kunitokotachi-no-Mikoto, but the essence of the faith has been preserved.
History of Ontake Faith
Ancient to Medieval Period: The Establishment of Mountain Worship
The origins of Ontake faith lie in Japan’s ancient mountain worship. The belief in the sacredness of mountains and the presence of deities can be traced back to the Jomon period. High mountains, in particular, were considered to possess special spiritual power as places connecting heaven and earth.
During the Nara period, Buddhism was introduced, and Shugendo was established. Shugendo is a uniquely Japanese religion that fuses mountain worship with Buddhism, Taoism, and Onmyodo (Japanese esoteric cosmology), aiming to gain supernatural powers through rigorous training in the mountains.
Medieval to Early Modern Period: The Development of Ontake-ko (Ontake Sects)
During the Edo period, Ontake faith developed significantly. Particularly important were the activities of two ascetics, Fukan and Kakumyo.
Fukan Gyōja (1731-1801) improved the Ōtaki-guchi climbing route to Mount Ontake, opening up a path for pilgrims to the general public. Until then, climbing Mount Ontake had been exclusively for ascetic monks, but now it was possible for ordinary people to do so.
Kakumyō Gyōja (1718-1786) opened the Kurosawa-guchi climbing route, also making it possible for ordinary believers to climb the mountain.
Through the activities of these two ascetics, a religious organization called Ontake-kō spread throughout the Kanto region and the Chubu region. The Ontake-kō is a system where believers form organizations and regularly visit Mount Ontake and various Ontake shrines. The sight of these groups, clad in white robes, climbing Mount Ontake in groups can still be seen today during the summer months.
Modern Era: Separation of Shinto and Buddhism and the Establishment of Ontake Shrines
Due to the Meiji-era decree separating Shinto and Buddhism, many sacred sites that had previously practiced syncretism were separated into either shrines or temples. Many sites that had been sacred to Shugendo (mountain asceticism) were reorganized as shrines under names such as “Ontake Shrine” and “Kinpu Shrine.”
However, the content of the faith itself did not change significantly, and the traditions of mountain worship and Shugendo were passed down.
Contemporary Era: Inheritance of Tradition and New Developments
Even today, Ontake faith is passed down to many people. Especially in summer, believers in white robes can be seen visiting Mount Ontake and various Ontake shrines.
On the other hand, with the boom in mountain climbing and the development of mountain tourism, the number of people visiting Ontake shrines for reasons other than faith is increasing. Some shrines, like Musashi Ontake Shrine, are popular as part of hiking trails.
The 2014 eruption of Mount Ontake served as a stark reminder of the power and awe-inspiring nature of mountains. This event has led to a renewed appreciation of the significance of Ontake worship.
How to Visit Ontake Shrine
Basic Worship Etiquette
Worship at Ontake Shrine generally follows the same etiquette as for other shrines.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth.
- Walk along the path: The center of the path is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the sides.
- Worship at the main hall: The basic procedure is two bows, two claps, and one bow. Place your offering in the offering box, ring the bell, and then bow.
Pilgrimage by Ontake-ko (Ontake Sect)
Pilgrimages by Ontake-ko followers take a more formal approach.
- Wearing White Robes: To maintain purity, white robes are worn.
- Group Ascent: Climbing together with fellow members of the pilgrimage group, helping each other along the way.
- Exorcism and Prayer: Formal exorcism and prayer are often received at the shrine.
- Purification and Abstinence: Abstinence, such as avoiding meat, is observed before the pilgrimage.
Precautions for Mountain Pilgrimages
When visiting Ontake shrines in mountainous areas, such as Musashi Ontake Shrine or Mount Kiso Ontake, the following points should be noted:
- Appropriate Clothing and Equipment: Prepare appropriate equipment for mountain hiking, such as hiking boots and warm clothing.
- Checking the Weather: Mountain weather is unpredictable, so check the weather forecast beforehand. – Health Management: There is a risk of altitude sickness at high altitudes. Please plan your trip carefully.
- Submission of Climbing Notification: If your climb involves serious mountaineering, you must submit a climbing notification.
Festivals and Events of Ontake Shrine
Ontake Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year.
Major Annual Events
Sunrise Festival: A festival to worship the sunrise of the new year, with many worshippers heading to the mountaintop. The first sunrise of the year, viewed from Musashi Ontake Shrine amidst a spectacular panoramic view of the Kanto region, is particularly popular.
Setsubun Festival: A traditional event held the day before the beginning of spring, including bean-throwing.
Daidai Kagura: An important festival where ancient Kagura (sacred dance) is performed. Dances are performed by Shinto priests and shrine maidens, expressing gratitude to the gods and praying for a bountiful harvest.
Summer Grand Festival: A large-scale festival held to coincide with the summer pilgrimage season, attracting many followers of the Ontake-ko (Ontake religious group).
Annual Grand Festival: The most important annual event at each shrine, featuring a procession of portable shrines and various offerings.
Special Prayers
At Ontake Shrine, you can receive the following prayers:
- Prayer for Protection from Misfortune: A prayer to ward off misfortune during one’s unlucky year.
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth: A prayer for the health of mother and child and a safe delivery.
- Prayer for Recovery from Illness: A prayer for recovery from illness.
- Prayer for Business Prosperity: A prayer for the development of one’s business.
- Prayer for Family Safety: A prayer for the peace and safety of one’s family.
- Traffic Safety: A prayer for safety in cars and during travel.
Access to Mitake Shrine
Musashi Mitake Shrine (Ome City, Tokyo)
Train: Get off at “Mitake Station” on the JR Ome Line, take a bus to “Cable-shita,” get off at “Mitakeyama Station” on the Mitake Tozan Railway Cable Car, and walk for about 25 minutes.
Car: Approximately 30 minutes from “Ome IC” on the Chuo Expressway to the cable car station.
Ontake Shrine (Mt. Kiso Ontake, Nagano Prefecture)
Otaki Entrance: Accessible via a hiking trail from Otaki Village, Nagano Prefecture.
Kurosawa Entrance: Accessible via a hiking trail from Kiso Town, Nagano Prefecture.
*Proper mountaineering equipment is required. The climbing season is mainly from July to September.
Other Ontake Shrines
For access to Ontake Shrines in various locations, please refer to their respective official websites or local tourist information. Shrines in urban areas are often easily accessible by public transportation.
Treasures and Cultural Properties of Ontake Shrines
National Treasures of Musashi Ontake Shrine
The treasure hall of Musashi Ontake Shrine houses numerous important cultural properties, including the “Red Thread-Laced Armor,” which is designated as a National Treasure. These are weapons and sacred treasures from the Heian to Kamakura periods, and are valuable historical materials that tell the story of Musashi Province.
Kagura and Performing Arts
The Taidai Kagura, a sacred dance passed down at Ontake Shrine, is an ancient Shinto ritual and performing art, many of which are designated as intangible cultural properties. These dances, performed as offerings to the gods, preserve the origins of traditional Japanese performing arts.
Ontake Faith and Modern Society
Value as a Spiritual Culture
Ontake faith, as a spiritual culture that fosters reverence and gratitude towards nature, holds significant meaning in modern society. The philosophy of coexistence with nature cultivated by mountain worship is receiving renewed attention in today’s world, where environmental problems are becoming increasingly serious.
Ontake-ko as a Community
Ontake-ko has functioned not merely as a religious organization but also as a local community. The bonds among members of the association fostered a spirit of mutual assistance and strengthened the unity of the local community. Even in modern times, the value of these human connections remains undiminished.
Balancing Tourism and Faith
In recent years, Ontake Shrines have gained attention as tourist destinations. Musashi Ontake Shrine, in particular, is popular as an easily accessible hiking spot near Tokyo. Balancing tourism and faith is a challenge faced by many Ontake Shrines, but it also provides a good opportunity to convey the significance of mountain worship to visitors.
Summary
Ontake Shrines are valuable cultural heritage sites that convey the traditions of Japanese mountain worship and Shugendo (mountain asceticism). Scattered throughout Japan, Ontake Shrines have cultivated unique histories and beliefs in each region.
From shrines like Musashi Ontake Shrine, which attract worshippers from all over the Kanto region, to sacred sites like Mount Kiso Ontake that involve serious mountain climbing, their forms vary. However, they all share a common spirit of reverence for the mountain spirits and gratitude for the power of nature.
In modern society, Ontake faith is not merely a legacy of the past, but continues to hold significant importance in terms of coexistence with nature and the cultivation of spirituality. We highly recommend visiting Ontake Shrine and experiencing the profound spirituality of mountain worship.
Ontake Shrines throughout the Kanto region and across Japan await your visit.
