Complete Guide to Owari Okunitama Shrine (Konomiya) | A Thorough Explanation of Deities, Blessings, and the Charm of the Naked Festival
Owari Okunitama Shrine, located in Inazawa City, Aichi Prefecture, is a venerable shrine in the Owari region, affectionately known as “Konomiya.” Its annual “Naked Festival,” held during the Lunar New Year, is nationally renowned as one of Japan’s three great unusual festivals, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. This article provides a thorough explanation of everything you need to know before visiting, from the history of Owari Okunitama Shrine, its enshrined deities, blessings, annual events, to access methods.
What is Owari Okunitama Shrine (Konomiya)?
Owari Okunitama Shrine is a Shikinaisha (shrine listed in the Engishiki) located in Konomiya, Inazawa City, Aichi Prefecture, and has long been revered as the principal shrine of Owari Province. The common name “Konomiya” originates from the fact that the provincial capital of Owari Province was once located on this site.
The shrine’s founding is extremely ancient. According to shrine tradition, it was moved to its current location in 767 AD (Jingo-Keiun 1), but it is believed to have existed as a center of faith in the Owari region even before that.
Role as the Grand Shrine of Owari Province
A grand shrine (Sosha) is a shrine established during the Ritsuryo period (774-788) where, instead of the provincial governor visiting each shrine within the province, the deities of various shrines were enshrined together in one place. Owari Okunitama Shrine, as the grand shrine of Owari Province, was a highly prestigious shrine representing the deities of Owari.
It is said that the provincial governor would always visit the shrine upon taking up their post, praying for peace and prosperity in the province and for a bountiful harvest. This tradition continues to this day, and the shrine attracts the faith of many people as a guardian deity of the region.
Deity and Divine Virtues
The deity enshrined at Owari Okunitama Shrine is Owari Okunitama-no-kami. This deity is the personification of the land of Owari Province itself, presiding over the blessings of the earth and the peace and security of the land.
About Owari Okunitama-no-Kami
Owari Okunitama-no-Kami is a historically significant deity listed in the “Engishiki Jinmyocho” (a list of shrines compiled in the Heian period), and has been revered since ancient times as the land god and tutelary deity of Owari Province. As a guardian deity of the land, it is considered a god that watches over the prosperity of agriculture, commerce, and industry in general.
Enshrined Deities
In addition to the main deity, the following deities are enshrined:
- Oomitama-no-Kami: God of protection against misfortune and disaster
- Takeinadane-no-Mikoto: Ancestral deity of the Owari clan
- Other deities of Owari Province: As a general shrine, deities from across the province are enshrined together.
These deities are believed to work together to grant the wishes of worshippers.
The Benefits of Owari Okunitama Shrine
Owari Okunitama Shrine is believed to offer a variety of benefits, attracting worshippers with diverse wishes.
Main Benefits
- Protection from Evil and Disaster: Known as a center of evil-warding beliefs, exemplified by the Naked Festival.
- Abundant Harvest and Business Prosperity: As a god of the land, it protects the prosperity of agriculture and commerce.
- Family Safety: As a guardian deity of the region, it is a place to pray for the peace and well-being of families.
- Healing from Illness: Due to its power to ward off evil, it is also a place of worship for protection from illness.
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: As a general shrine, it offers protection from various gods.
Many people, especially those in their unlucky years or those reaching milestones in their lives, visit the shrine.
The Charm of the Naked Festival (Konomiya Naked Festival)
What makes Owari Okunitama Shrine famous nationwide is the “Naked Festival,” held annually during the Lunar New Year. Officially called “Naoi Shinji,” this is a traditional event with a history of over 1200 years.
What is the Naked Festival?
Held on the thirteenth day of the lunar new year in the coldest part of winter (currently around mid-February), this festival sees thousands of men, naked except for loincloths, gathering at a shrine to ward off evil by touching a single man known as the “Shin-otoko” (divine man).
The man chosen as the Shin-otoko shaves all his body hair and dresses in white before heading to the shrine. The sight of the naked men pushing and shoving towards the Shin-otoko is breathtaking, as it is believed that touching him will ward off evil and ensure a year of good health.
History of the Naked Festival
The origins of this ritual are said to date back to the Nara period, and it is thought to have originated from the “Tsuina” ceremony, initially performed in the imperial court, which later spread to the common people. One theory suggests that this festival originated in this area, where the Owari Provincial Government was located, and was started by the provincial governor to ward off evil from the people.
By the Edo period, the festival’s current form was already established, and it was a festival highly valued by the Owari feudal lord. It continued to be passed down as an important regional tradition after the Meiji Restoration, and in 1964 it was designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Aichi Prefecture.
Highlights of the Naked Festival
Naoi-zasa
Before the festival, large bamboo branches called “Naoi-zasa” are distributed to each household. These branches are believed to have the power to ward off evil, and displaying them at the entrance of a house is thought to prevent misfortune for the entire year.
Purification Ritual in the Shonai River
On the day of the festival, the naked men perform a water purification ritual (mizugori) in the Shonai River early in the morning to cleanse themselves. The purification ritual in the cold river in the middle of winter leaves a solemn impression on those who witness it.
Dedication of Naoi Bamboo
Large bamboo branches are dedicated from each district and erected within the shrine grounds. These branches embody the wishes of the local people.
Chasing the Divine Man
The climax is the “Chasing the Divine Man” at night. Around 8 PM, when the Divine Man arrives at the shrine, thousands of naked men who have been waiting rush towards him. The intensity and energy of this moment are particularly remarkable among Japanese festivals.
How to Participate and Important Notes
To participate as a naked man, prior registration is required. Registration takes place in various districts in Inazawa City and the surrounding areas; you will pay a participation fee and officially register.
Participants will be given a white loincloth called “naoi cloth” and a hand towel. Furthermore, a purification ritual is required before participating.
If you are watching, it will be extremely crowded, so early arrival is necessary to secure a good viewing spot. Also, be sure to take precautions against the cold.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
The grounds of Owari Okunitama Shrine contain numerous historical buildings and points of interest.
Tower Gate
The magnificent tower gate, standing at the front of the shrine, is a symbolic structure that first welcomes visitors. The brightly colored vermilion gate preserves the architectural style of the Edo period.
Worship Hall and Main Sanctuary
The worship hall is a dignified building with a hipped roof, where many worshippers offer their prayers. The main sanctuary, located behind it, is built in a unique architectural style known as Owari-zukuri and is designated as an important cultural property of Aichi Prefecture.
Sacred Rocks (Iwakura)
Ancient sacred rocks (Iwakura) remain on the shrine grounds, indicating that this area was a sacred place even before the shrine’s founding. These are valuable relics that convey a primitive form of worship where natural stones were considered sacred objects.
Subsidiary Shrines and Auxiliary Shrines
Several subsidiary shrines and auxiliary shrines are located within the shrine grounds:
- Ooe Shrine: A shrine associated with the Owari clan
- Mikuwa Shrine: Dedicated to the god of agriculture
- Nakanomiya: An ancient shrine within the grounds
- Munakata Shrine: Deity of maritime safety
It is believed that visiting these shrines together will bring even greater divine blessings.
Sacred Trees
Several ancient trees, some hundreds of years old, stand tall within the shrine grounds, creating a sacred atmosphere. The camphor tree near the main hall, in particular, tells the story of the shrine’s long history.
Annual Events
Besides the Naked Festival, various Shinto rituals are performed throughout the year at Owari Okunitama Shrine.
Main Annual Events
January 1st: Saitansai (New Year’s Festival)
A Shinto ritual celebrating the New Year, attracting many first-time visitors.
Early February: Na-oi Ritual (Naked Festival)
The largest Shinto ritual, held on the thirteenth day of the lunar new year.
February 17th: Kinensai Festival
A major spring festival praying for a bountiful harvest.
May 3rd: Reisai Festival
One of the most important festivals at the shrine.
Late July: Natsukoshi no Oharae (Summer Purification Ceremony)
A ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months. Includes the ritual of passing through a ring of reeds.
November 23rd: Niiname-sai Festival
A festival offering new grain to the gods and expressing gratitude for the harvest.
December 31st: Oharae-shiki (Great Purification Ceremony)
A ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the year.
Many of these rituals are open to the general public, offering a glimpse into traditional Japanese beliefs.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals) and Amulets
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
At Owari Okunitama Shrine, in addition to the regular goshuin, special goshuin are given out during the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival). The goshuin, featuring beautiful calligraphy and the red seal of “Owari Okunitama Shrine,” is popular as a memento of your visit.
Goshuin are available at the shrine office, and the offering fee is approximately 300 yen. Original goshuin notebooks are also sold at the shrine.
Amulets and Souvenirs
The shrine offers a variety of amulets and souvenirs:
- Exorcism Amulet: A powerful amulet for warding off evil, befitting a shrine that is considered the head temple for exorcism.
- Health and Well-being Amulet: An amulet for protecting one’s health.
- Business Prosperity Amulet: A prayer for the prosperity of one’s business.
- Traffic Safety Amulet: A prayer for safety when driving or cycling.
- Academic Success Amulet: Popular among students taking exams.
- Naoi Cloth: An amulet modeled after the white cloth used in the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival).
The exorcism amulet, in particular, is popular as it is believed to draw upon the spiritual power of the Hadaka Matsuri.
Manners and Points for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Worship Etiquette
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: This shows respect for entering the sacred area.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Walk along the edge of the path: The center is considered the path of the gods.
- Etiquette at the main hall: Two bows, two claps, and one bow are the basics.
About Offerings
There are no set amounts, but many people offer 5-yen or 50-yen coins as a way of saying “May I have good fortune.” What’s important is not the amount, but a sincere feeling.
Appropriate Attire for Visiting a Shrine
There are no particularly strict dress code regulations, but it is desirable to wear clothing that is mindful of the sacred nature of the place. It is very cold during the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival), so please take proper precautions against the cold.
About Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but it may be restricted inside the main hall or during Shinto rituals. If you are unsure, please check with the shrine office.
Access Methods
Access by Train
From Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line “Konomiya Station”
- Approximately 3 minutes on foot from the North Exit
- This is the most convenient access method
- Approximately 15 minutes from Nagoya Station to Konomiya Station
It is easily accessible from Nagoya Station, making it ideal for a day trip.
Access by Car
Via Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from Nagoya IC via National Route 22
- Approximately 20 minutes from Ichinomiya IC
Via Nagoya Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Kiyosu Exit
Parking Information
The shrine has a parking lot for visitors, but the number of spaces is limited. Especially during the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival), surrounding roads are subject to traffic restrictions and the parking lot becomes full, so we strongly recommend using public transportation.
Normally, there are approximately 100 parking spaces available, and it is free of charge.
Access During the Hadaka Matsuri Festival
On the day of the Hadaka Matsuri, large-scale traffic restrictions will be in place throughout Inazawa City. Surrounding roads will be pedestrian-only, making access by car virtually impossible. Please be sure to use the train.
Also, Konomiya Station will be extremely crowded, so we recommend leaving with plenty of time to spare.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Owari Okunitama Shrine, you can also visit nearby tourist attractions.
Inazawa City Ogisu Memorial Museum
This museum is about a 10-minute drive from the shrine and primarily exhibits works by Takanori Ogisu, a painter from Inazawa City. His oil paintings depicting Parisian streetscapes are a must-see.
Yagō Kannon (Zenkōji Tōkai Branch Temple)
A historic temple affectionately known as “Kannon of the Mino Road.” It’s about a 15-minute drive from Konomiya.
Inazawa Hydrangea Festival (Otsuka Seikaiji Historical Park)
A famous spot where approximately 10,000 hydrangea plants of about 90 varieties bloom in June. About 10 minutes by car from the shrine.
Kiyosu Castle
A castle associated with Oda Nobunaga, about 20 minutes by car from Konomiya. The castle tower offers a panoramic view of the Nobi Plain.
History of Owari Okunitama Shrine
Ancient Founding
The founding date of Owari Okunitama Shrine is unclear, but according to the surviving fragments of the “Owari no Kuni Fudoki” (a historical and geographical record of Owari Province), rituals were already being performed during the reign of Emperor Sujin (around the 1st century BC).
It is believed that the shrine was originally located in a different place within Inazawa City, and records indicate that it was moved to its current location in the first year of Jingo-Keiun (767 AD).
Prosperity during the Ritsuryo Period
From the Nara period to the Heian period, this area was home to the provincial capital of Owari Province, and flourished as a center of politics, economy, and culture. Owari Okunitama Shrine, as the guardian deity of the provincial capital, attracted the reverence of many people, including the provincial governor.
The “Engishiki Jinmyocho” (927 AD) lists it as “Owari Okunitama Shrine, Nakashima District, Owari Province,” indicating its status as a Shikinaisha (a shrine listed in the Engishiki).
Changes in the Medieval Period
From the Kamakura period to the Muromachi period, it also attracted the faith of samurai families. The Shiba clan, who served as the Owari provincial governor, are said to have protected the shrine.
However, during the Sengoku period, it suffered from the effects of war and experienced a period of decline.
Restoration in the Edo Period
In the Edo period, it was restored under the protection of the Tokugawa family, the lords of the Owari domain. Tokugawa Yoshinao, the first lord of the Owari domain, focused on the restoration of the shrine and constructed new shrine buildings.
During this period, the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival) established its current form and became known as one of the most prominent festivals in Owari Province.
Modern Era
Due to the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism, temples that had previously been integrated with shrines were separated. In 1872 (Meiji 5), it was ranked as a local shrine and later promoted to a prefectural shrine.
It escaped war damage during World War II, and its valuable cultural assets have been preserved to this day. After the war, it restarted as a religious corporation and continues to operate to this day.
In 1964 (Showa 39), the Hadaka Matsuri (Na-oi Shinto ritual) was designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Aichi Prefecture, and in 2006 (Heisei 18), it was designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the visiting hours?
While entry to the shrine grounds is generally possible 24 hours a day, the shrine office is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Those wishing to receive a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp) or amulet should visit during these hours.
How much is the offering fee?
A Goshuin costs 300 yen, and amulets vary in price, ranging from 500 to 1,000 yen. Prayers start from 5,000 yen.
Can women participate in the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival)?
Only men can participate as “naked men,” but women are welcome to watch. Women are also involved in the preparation and operation of the festival.
Can I get an exorcism at any time?
Exorcism prayers are accepted throughout the year, but they are especially popular during New Year’s and the Hadaka Matsuri. We recommend making a reservation by phone in advance.
Is parking free?
Yes, parking for visitors is usually free. However, it may be unavailable during major events such as the Hadaka Matsuri.
Is it possible to visit with pets?
Small dogs are allowed on the shrine grounds if they are in a cage or being carried, but they are not permitted inside the main hall. Please be considerate of other visitors.
Summary
Owari Okunitama Shrine (Konomiya) is a representative ancient shrine of the Owari region with a history of over 1200 years. It has long been revered as the principal shrine of Owari Province, and is particularly known for its miraculous powers in warding off evil.
The “Hadaka Matsuri” (Naked Festival), held every February, is nationally famous as one of Japan’s most unique festivals, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. The sight of naked men chasing the sacred man in the cold is breathtaking and a traditional Japanese event that you should see at least once.
Despite its convenient location just 15 minutes by train from Nagoya, the shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. It warmly welcomes visitors with various wishes, such as protection from evil, business prosperity, and family safety.
Owari Okunitama Shrine can be visited for a variety of purposes, including New Year’s visits, exorcisms, and viewing the Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival). When you visit Aichi Prefecture, be sure to stop by. You’ll be able to experience a form of Japanese faith that has continued since ancient times, and it will surely be a refreshing experience for your soul.
