Complete Guide to Tsushima Shrine | History, Benefits, and Visiting Information for the Nationwide Head Shrine of Tenno Deities
Tsushima Shrine, located in Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture, is the nationwide head shrine of Tenno deities, often mentioned alongside Yasaka Shrine in the west. Formerly known as “Tsushima Gozu Tenno Shrine,” it is still affectionately called “O-Tenno-sama” today. This article provides a detailed introduction to Tsushima Shrine, boasting a history of over 1450 years, including its origins, enshrined deities, benefits, visiting methods, and highlights.
What is Tsushima Shrine? | Overview of the Nationwide Head Shrine of Tenno Deities
Tsushima Shrine, located in Shinmei-cho, Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture, is the head shrine of the approximately 3000 Tenno shrines nationwide. It holds the highest divine rank of Sho-ichii, was formerly a national shrine of the lowest rank, and is currently a special shrine under the jurisdiction of the Association of Shinto Shrines, attracting many worshippers from all over the country.
Also known as “Tsushima Gozu Tenno Shrine” and “Tsushima Tenno Shrine,” it has been widely worshipped as a guardian deity against disease and misfortune, and as a great deity of good fortune. Along with Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine, it is known as one of the two major shrines of Gozu Tenno worship, and occupies an important position in the history of Japanese Shinto shrines.
Characteristics of Tsushima Shrine
- Head shrine of approximately 3000 Tenno shrines nationwide
- An ancient shrine with a history of over 1450 years
- Guardian deity against disease and misfortune
- A prestigious shrine with the highest rank of Shinto deity
- Possesses numerous important cultural properties
History and Origins of Tsushima Shrine
Founding and Ancient History
According to shrine tradition, Tsushima Shrine was founded in the first year of Emperor Kinmei’s reign (540 AD). It is an ancient shrine with a history of approximately 1480 years, and its origins date back to the Kofun period.
From its founding, the shrine was worshipped as a deity that wards off epidemics, and in 810 (Kōnin 1), it was granted the highest rank of Shinto deity and the title of “Japan’s Grand Shrine.” Furthermore, during the Shōryaku era of Emperor Ichijō (990s), it was given the title of “Tennō-sha,” establishing its position as the head shrine of all Tennō-sha shrines throughout the country.
Development in the Medieval Period
During the medieval period, Tsushima flourished as a key point for maritime transport in Ise Bay, and Tsushima Shrine developed as the central hub of the commercial city of Tsushima. It was also deeply revered by samurai families, including the Oda clan, and many lands were donated to the shrine.
Oda Nobuhide, the father of Oda Nobunaga, was deeply devoted to Tsushima Shrine, and during the Tenbun era (1532-1555), he carried out repairs and donations to the shrine buildings. Oda Nobunaga also valued Tsushima Shrine and is believed to have recognized Tsushima’s economic importance.
Prosperity in the Early Modern Period
During the Edo period, Tsushima Shrine received the patronage of the Tokugawa family. In 1598 (Keicho 3), a gate tower was built through a donation from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and it continued to receive deep reverence from successive lords of the Owari domain.
Between the Tensho and Keicho periods, the current main shrine buildings were constructed. The gate tower, main hall, and south gate are designated as important national cultural properties, preserving the architectural style of the time.
Modern Era
Following the Shinto-Buddhist Separation Order of 1872 (Meiji 5), the shrine was renamed from “Tsushima Gozu Tenno-sha” to “Tsushima Shrine.” During the Meiji era, it was designated a National Shrine of the lower rank, and after World War II, it became a Special Shrine under the jurisdiction of the Association of Shinto Shrines, a status it retains to this day.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Main Deity: Takehayasusano-no-Mikoto
The main deity of Tsushima Shrine is Takehayasusano-no-Mikoto (Susanoo-no-Mikoto). In Japanese mythology, he is known as the younger brother of Amaterasu-Omikami and is famous as a brave god who slayed the Yamata-no-Orochi (eight-headed serpent).
Susanoo-no-Mikoto is revered as a god who contributed to national development and industrial progress, and who bestowed boundless benevolence upon the stability of the people’s lives. He is particularly known for his divine power to ward off epidemics and has been worshipped as “Gozu Tenno” since ancient times.
Enshrined Deity: Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto
Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto (Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto), the son of Takehayasusano-no-Mikoto, is enshrined in the auxiliary shrine. Ōanamuchi-no-Mikoto is widely worshipped as the god of nation-building and matchmaking.
Divine Virtues and Benefits of Tsushima Shrine
Tsushima Shrine is known for the following divine virtues:
Protection from Epidemics and Healing
The most famous divine virtue is protection from epidemics. Since ancient times, it has been worshipped as a guardian deity against epidemics, and especially during times of epidemic, worshippers came from all over the country. Even today, many people visit to pray for good health and healing from illness.
Protection from Misfortune and Disaster
It is revered as a god that removes misfortunes that befall people. It is believed to protect against various misfortunes in daily life, as well as protection from misfortunes during unlucky years.
Bestowal of Good Fortune and Business Prosperity
As a great god of bestowal of good fortune, it is believed to have the divine virtue of bringing good luck. As the guardian deity of the commercial city of Tsushima, it is also known for its benefits in business prosperity.
Matchmaking
Due to the divine virtues of Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto, enshrined alongside the main deity, the shrine is believed to offer blessings for matchmaking. Many visitors come seeking good fortune in love.
Tsushima Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Magnificent Owari-Style Shrine Architecture
The shrine buildings of Tsushima Shrine are constructed in the “Owari-style,” a unique architectural style of the Owari region. The main hall and other major structures are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan due to their historical and artistic value.
Tower Gate (Important Cultural Property)
Built in 1598 (Keichō 3) by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the tower gate is a symbolic structure of Tsushima Shrine. This magnificent two-story gate overwhelms visitors with its splendor. Characterized by its vermilion-painted pillars and intricate carvings, it preserves the architectural style of the Momoyama period.
Main Shrine (Important Cultural Property)
The main shrine was built between the Tensho and Keicho periods and is known as a representative example of Owari-style architecture. The cypress bark roof and elaborate decorations of the shrine building are highly regarded as a masterpiece of Shinto shrine architecture.
South Gate (Important Cultural Property)
The South Gate is also designated as an Important Cultural Property and, along with the Tower Gate, is an important structure that demonstrates the status of Tsushima Shrine. Built during the Tensho period, it showcases the high level of architectural technology of the time.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Sacred Pond and Drum Bridge
The shrine grounds feature a beautiful sacred pond, and the drum bridge spanning it is a popular photo spot. The reflection of the shrine buildings on the water’s surface shows different expressions with each season.
Sacred Tree
The shrine grounds have a sacred tree said to be several hundred years old, creating a sacred atmosphere. Many visitors pray in front of the sacred tree to receive its power.
The Stage of the Tsushima Tenno Festival
The shrine grounds are an important stage for the Tsushima Tenno Festival, one of Japan’s three major river festivals. During the festival, the area connecting the shrine grounds and Tenno River Park becomes bustling with festivities.
Tsushima Tenno Festival | UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage
The Tsushima Tenno Festival (Owari Tsushima Tenno Festival), the largest festival of Tsushima Shrine, is a traditional event with a history of over 600 years. Held annually on the fourth Saturday of July and the following Sunday, it was registered as one of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage “Mountain, Float, and Procession Festivals” in 2016.
Evening Festival (Makiwara Boats)
On Saturday’s evening festival, five makiwara boats float on the Tenno River, illuminated by 365 lanterns. This fantastical sight is considered the epitome of the beauty of a “river festival” and attracts many tourists.
Morning Festival (Festival Boat Procession)
On Sunday mornings, festival boats carrying Noh puppets cross the Tenno River. This traditional and elegant festival showcases the beauty of Japanese traditional culture.
Information on Prayer Services
Tsushima Shrine offers various prayer services.
Main Types of Prayers
- Exorcism Prayer: Protection from misfortune during unlucky years
- Healing from Illness: Prayers for recovery from illness
- Family Safety: Prayers for the safety and health of the family
- Business Prosperity: Prayers for the prosperity of business
- Traffic Safety: Blessing of cars, etc.
- Safe Childbirth Prayer: Prayers for a safe childbirth
- First Shrine Visit: Prayers for the healthy growth of the baby
- Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3 Festival): Celebrating the growth of children
- Prayer for Success in Exams: Prayers for success in exams
- Matchmaking: Prayers for a good match
Prayer Reception Hours
Normally, prayers are accepted from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. Advance reservations are not required, but it is recommended to visit with ample time as it is expected to be crowded during New Year’s and festival periods.
Information on Shinto Wedding Ceremonies
Tsushima Shrine offers traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies. A wedding ceremony held in the majestic shrine takes place in a solemn atmosphere befitting the start of a new life together.
Those wishing to have a Shinto wedding ceremony can contact the shrine in advance to discuss dates and details. A wedding ceremony at a historic shrine will surely be a lifelong memory.
Information on the Great Purification Ceremony
At Tsushima Shrine, the Great Purification Ceremony (Oharai) is held twice a year, on June 30th and December 31st.
Summer Purification Ceremony (June 30th)
This is a Shinto ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the past six months. A ritual called “Chino-wa Kuguri” (passing through a ring of reeds) is performed, where worshippers purify their minds and bodies by passing through the ring and pray for good health and protection from illness for the remaining half of the year.
Year-End Purification Ceremony (December 31st)
This is a Shinto ritual to purify oneself of sins and impurities accumulated over the past year, allowing for a refreshing start to the new year.
Participating in the Great Purification Ceremony refreshes both mind and body, allowing you to face each day with a renewed spirit.
Items and Amulets
Tsushima Shrine offers a variety of items and amulets.
Main Items
- Plague Protection Amulet: A unique amulet from Tsushima Shrine for protection against disease.
- Exorcism Amulet: An amulet for protection against misfortune.
- Health Amulet: An amulet for protecting your health.
- Traffic Safety Amulet: An amulet for traffic safety.
- Matchmaking Amulet: An amulet for finding a good match.
- Academic Success Amulet: An amulet for academic success.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
Tsushima Shrine’s goshuin (shrine seal) is popular for its beautiful calligraphy and courteous service. In addition to the regular goshuin, special seasonal goshuin are sometimes offered. Goshuin notebooks are also available, featuring original designs from Tsushima Shrine.
In recent years, the goshuin have attracted attention as artistic pieces and have become a topic of discussion on social media. As a memento of your visit, please consider receiving a Goshuin (temple/shrine stamp).
Access Information
Location
Address: 1 Shinmei-cho, Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture 496-0851
Phone: 0567-26-3216
Access by Train
Using the Meitetsu Tsushima Line
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Meitetsu Tsushima Station
- From Nagoya Station, take the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line to Sukaguchi Station, then transfer to the Tsushima Line and get off at Tsushima Station
Using the JR Kansai Main Line
- From JR Eiwa Station, take the Meitetsu Bus and get off at “Tsushima Shrine” bus stop (immediately adjacent)
Access by Car
- Approximately 15 minutes from Yatomi IC on the Tomeihan Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from Ogon Exit on the Nagoya Expressway
Parking
There is parking available for visitors around the shrine grounds. Normally, entry is free, but it gets crowded during New Year’s and festival periods, so we recommend using public transportation.
Visiting Hours and Inquiries
Visiting Hours
While entry to the shrine grounds is generally free, the hours for receiving amulets and prayers are as follows:
- Amulet/Prayer Reception: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Inquiries
Telephone: 0567-26-3216
Reception Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
For detailed and up-to-date information, please check the official Tsushima Shrine website.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Tenno River Park
Tenno River Park, located about a 10-minute walk from Tsushima Shrine, is the venue for the Tsushima Tenno Festival. Known for its vast pond and beautiful wisteria trellises, the “Owari Tsushima Wisteria Festival” is held there from late April to early May.
Tsushima City Tourism Exchange Center
This facility allows you to learn about the history and culture of Tsushima, and includes exhibits on Tsushima Shrine and the Tsushima Tenno Festival. You can also obtain tourist information here, making it a useful base for sightseeing in Tsushima.
Hotta Family Residence
This is the residence of a wealthy merchant from the Edo period and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. It is a valuable building that allows us to understand what a merchant’s house was like at that time.
Points to Note When Visiting Tsushima Shrine
Recommended Time to Visit
- New Year’s (January 1st-3rd): Bustling with New Year’s visitors
- Tsushima Tenno Festival (4th Saturday and Sunday of July): Witness the largest festival
- Summer Purification Ceremony (June 30th): Participate in the Chino-wa (straw ring) ritual
- Wisteria Festival (late April-early May): Visit the shrine and the wisteria at Tenno River Park
Shrine Visit Manners
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin
- Avoid walking in the center of the approach to the shrine (the center is the path for the gods)
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall
- Remain quiet within the shrine grounds
Regarding Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking pictures during prayers or Shinto rituals. Also, please be considerate of other visitors.
The Spread of Tsushima Faith
Tsushima faith, with Tsushima Shrine as its head shrine, has spread throughout Japan. Approximately 3,000 Tenno-sha and Tsushima-sha shrines nationwide have received a divided spirit from Tsushima Shrine, and are revered as deities protecting against epidemics in various regions.
Particularly in the Tokai region, there are many Tsushima-sha shrines in the Kanto, Kinki, and Chugoku regions, and they are cherished as guardian deities of their respective areas. This wide sphere of influence speaks to the historical importance of Tsushima Shrine and the depth of faith in its universal divine virtue of protecting against epidemics.
Summary
Tsushima Shrine, with a history of over 1,450 years, is the head shrine of all Tenno-sha shrines nationwide and has been widely worshipped as a guardian deity protecting against epidemics and misfortune. Tsushima Shrine is a shrine of great historical and cultural value, boasting a magnificent Owari-style shrine building, numerous important cultural properties, and the Tsushima Tenno Festival, which is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Even today, many worshippers visit the shrine seeking good health and protection from evil, and it is affectionately known as “O-Tenno-sama.” When you visit Aichi Prefecture, be sure to visit Tsushima Shrine and experience its solemn atmosphere and long history. You will feel cleansed in both mind and body, and gain renewed vitality.
