Nagase Shrine (Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture) Complete Guide: History, Deities, and Access Information
Nagase Shrine, located in Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture, is a historical shrine that has been revered by the local people since its founding in the Muromachi period. This article provides detailed information useful for visiting Nagase Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, festivals, and access methods.
Overview of Nagase Shrine
Nagase Shrine is located in Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture, and has a history dating back to its founding in the first year of the Hōtoku era (1449). It has been revered by the local community as the tutelary shrine of the former Hawai-machi town, and currently belongs to the Tottori Prefectural Shrine Association, performing local festivals and religious ceremonies.
Basic Information
Location: Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture (formerly Hagai-cho)
Year of Founding: October, Hōtoku 1 (1449)
Former Name: Ippō Tennō, Ippō Daimyōjin
Current Shrine Name: Nagase Shrine (Renamed in Meiji 5)
Affiliation: Tottori Prefectural Shrine Association
Yurihama-cho was formed on October 1, 2004, through the merger of Hagai-cho, Tomari-mura, and Tōgō-cho in Tohaku-gun. Therefore, the address of Nagase Shrine has changed from “Hagai-cho, Tohaku-gun” to “Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun,” but historically, it has been known as a shrine located in Hagai-cho.
History of Nagase Shrine
The history of Nagase Shrine dates back to the mid-Muromachi period, and it was founded by inviting the divided spirits of several deities.
History of Founding
In October of the first year of the Hōtoku era (1449), Nagase Shrine was founded by inviting the divided spirits of the following deities:
- Deities of the West Sanctuary of the Outer Shrine of Ise Province: Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto and Amenofutodama-no-Mikoto (two deities)
- Deity of the Right Sanctuary of Mizuo Shrine in Takashima District, Ōmi Province: A divided spirit of Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto
These deities were enshrined on the gravel embankment of the Tenjin River. The Tenjin River is a first-class river flowing through central Tottori Prefecture and has been deeply intertwined with the lives of the local people since ancient times. It is believed that the shrine’s construction on its embankment also served as a prayer for flood control and the safety of the region.
Changes in Shrine Name
From its founding until the Meiji era, Nagase Shrine was known as “Ippō Tennō” or “Ippō Daimyōjin.” This name reflects the era of syncretism between Shinto and Buddhism, suggesting a connection to Tennō worship and Gozu Tennō worship.
In 1872 (Meiji 5), influenced by the Meiji government’s decree separating Shinto and Buddhism, the shrine was renamed “Nagase Shrine.” This renaming was part of a nationwide reorganization of shrine names. The addition of the place name “Nagase” is thought to have clarified its character as a local tutelary shrine.
Deities Enshrined
The deities enshrined at Nagase Shrine are as follows:
Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto
This deity is considered the ancestral god of the Nakatomi clan (Fujiwara clan) and is known for reciting prayers when Amaterasu Ōmikami hid in the Amano-Iwato cave. He is worshipped as the god of learning, wisdom, and the power of words.
Ame-no-Futodama-no-Mikoto
The ancestral deity of the Imbe clan, a god who played a crucial role in the Amano-Iwato myth. He is revered as the god of rituals, industry, and pioneering.
Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto
The goddess who performed a dance in the Amano-Iwato myth, creating the opportunity to lure Amaterasu Omikami out of the cave. She is worshipped as the goddess of performing arts, appeasement of spirits, and matchmaking.
These deities are all important gods appearing in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and are deeply involved in the Amano-Iwato myth. It is believed that the enshrinement of these deities at Nagase Shrine was intended to pray for regional prosperity, cultural development, and the peace and well-being of the people.
Characteristics and Highlights of Nagase Shrine
Relationship with Tenjin River
The gravel embankment of the Tenjin River, where Nagase Shrine was founded, has played an important role in flood control in the region. The Tenjin River has been known since ancient times as a turbulent river prone to repeated flooding, making flood control a pressing issue for local residents.
Building a shrine on the riverbank is an expression of faith, seeking divine protection to safeguard the region from floods. Nagase Shrine can be said to have functioned not only as a religious facility but also as a symbolic presence protecting the safety of the region.
Connections to Ise Grand Shrine and Omi Province
It is noteworthy that the deities enshrined at Nagase Shrine were invited from the Outer Shrine of Ise Province (present-day Mie Prefecture) and the Mizuo Shrine of Omi Province (present-day Shiga Prefecture). This demonstrates the network of Shinto beliefs during the Muromachi period and indicates that the Hawai region had cultural exchanges with other regions at that time.
Ise Grand Shrine is the central presence of Japanese Shinto, and its Outer Shrine is an important shrine dedicated to Toyouke-no-Omikami. Furthermore, Omi Province, being close to Kyoto, was a culturally advanced region from ancient times. The fact that the shrine received divided spirits from these regions indicates that Nagase Shrine was founded as a shrine of high status from the beginning.
As the Local Guardian Deity
Nagase Shrine has played a central role in the local community as the guardian deity of the Nagase district of the former Hawai Town. A guardian deity is a god that protects the people living in a particular area (parishioners), and is central to local festivals and annual events.
Even amidst the wave of modernization since the Meiji era, Nagase Shrine has been maintained as a center of local faith and is still carefully preserved by local residents today.
Differences from Other Nagase Shrines in Tottori Prefecture
There are several “Nagase Shrines” in Tottori Prefecture, so care should be taken not to confuse them.
Nagase Shrine in Kawara-cho, Tottori City
There is also a Nagase Shrine located in Nagase, Kawara-cho, Tottori City. This shrine was renamed Nagase Shrine in the early Meiji period, after enshrining the mountain god of Takitani (Oyamatsumi-no-Mikoto), Inari Daimyojin (Ukemochi-no-Kami) enshrined within the grounds, and Iwataki-no-Kami (Mizuhanome-no-Mikoto) of Takimiya. It is a separate shrine from the Nagase Shrine in Yurihama Town.
Nagase Shrines in Other Regions
Nationwide, there are also Nagase Shrines in Higashi-Osaka City, Osaka Prefecture, and Gifu Prefecture, among others. These are all independent shrines, with different enshrined deities and histories.
When visiting the Nagase Shrine in Yurihama Town, it is important to confirm that its location is “Yurihama Town, Tohaku District (formerly Hawai Town).”
Festivals and Events at Nagase Shrine
Nagase Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year. As the local guardian shrine, seasonal festivals are important events for the community.
Annual Festival
The annual festival, the most important festival of the shrine, is a solemn Shinto ritual performed with the participation of local residents. Traditional festival forms, such as the dedication of sacred dances and the procession of portable shrines, are still preserved.
Annual Events
- New Year’s Visit: Praying for safety throughout the year to welcome the new year.
- Setsubun Festival: Praying for protection from evil and for good fortune.
- Summer Festival: Praying for the safety of the community and a bountiful harvest.
- Autumn Grand Festival: Expressing gratitude for the harvest and praying for a bountiful harvest in the coming year.
These events are important opportunities to pass on the region’s traditional culture to future generations.
Access and Map Information
Location
Address: Yurihama-cho, Tohaku-gun, Tottori Prefecture (formerly Hawai-cho)
*For the exact address, please contact the Tottori Prefectural Shrine Association or the Yurihama Town Hall.
Access
Using Public Transportation
- Approximately 10-15 minutes by car from JR San’in Main Line “Matsuzaki Station” or “Kurayoshi Station”
- If using a local bus, the Yurihama Town Community Bus is convenient.
Using a Car
- Approximately 5-10 minutes from San’in Expressway “Hawai IC”
- Accessible from National Route 9
- We recommend checking parking availability in advance.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Yurihama Town is blessed with many tourist resources, including Lake Togo and Hawai Onsen. In addition to visiting Nagase Shrine, we also recommend visiting the following spots:
- Lake Togo: A beautiful lake counted as one of the Eight Scenic Views of San’in
- Hawai Onsen: A hot spring resort located on the lakeshore
- Yanchoen Chinese Garden: An authentic Chinese garden
- Hawaii Beach: A popular beach in the summer
Etiquette and Manners for Visiting Shrines
When visiting Nagase Shrine, please observe the following basic etiquette.
Basic Procedure for Worship
- 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, then your right hand, then your mouth.
- Walk along the edge of the path: The center is considered the path of the gods.
- Etiquette in front of the main hall: The basic procedure is two bows, two claps, and one bow.
Attire for Worship
No special attire is required, but please dress appropriately, keeping in mind that this is a sacred place.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but consideration should be given to the situation, such as refraining from taking photos during festivals or Shinto rituals.
Tottori Prefecture Shrine Association and Nagase Shrine
Nagase Shrine is a shrine belonging to the Tottori Prefecture Shrine Association. The Tottori Prefecture Shrine Association is a religious corporation that encompasses shrines in the prefecture and supports the maintenance and management of shrines, the training of Shinto priests, and the continuation of festivals.
Role of the Tottori Prefectural Shrine Association
- Comprehensive guidance of shrines within the prefecture
- Training and education of Shinto priests
- Provision of information on shrines
- Promotion of Shinto culture
- Support for the continuation of festival ceremonies
Detailed information about Nagase Shrine and inquiries regarding visits can be found on the official website of the Tottori Prefectural Shrine Association.
History of Yurihama Town and Nagase Shrine
Yurihama Town was formed on October 1, 2004, through the merger of Hagai Town, Tomari Village, and Togo Town in Tohaku District. While the location of Nagase Shrine changed as a result of this merger, the history and origins of the shrine itself remain unchanged.
History of the Former Hagai Town
Hagai Town is located on the northern shore of Lake Togo and has long been a region where agriculture and fishing flourished. It was also known as a hot spring resort, affectionately called “Hagai Onsen.” The town name “Hawai” can be read as “Hawaii,” and as part of town revitalization efforts, it has a history of promoting tourism with the slogan “Japan’s Hawaii.”
Yurihama Town After Merger
The name of Yurihama Town combines the local characteristics of “Yu” (hot spring), “Nashi” (20th Century pear), and “Hama” (coast). Even after the merger, Nagase Shrine continues to be the local guardian shrine and a spiritual center for the residents.
Nagase Shrine and Local Culture
Nagase Shrine is not merely a religious facility, but an important place for passing on local culture.
Cultural Transmission Through Festivals
Shrine festivals provide opportunities to pass on traditional music, dance, and craft techniques to the next generation. Various traditional cultures, such as sacred dances, portable shrine decorations, and festival cuisine, are passed down through the festivals.
As a Community Center
In modern society, the weakening of local communities is a problem, but Nagase Shrine functions as a valuable place where local residents gather. Through the preparation and operation of the festival, intergenerational exchanges are fostered, strengthening community bonds.
Shinto and Nagase Shrine
Nagase Shrine is a Shinto shrine, a religion unique to Japan. Understanding the basic principles of Shinto allows for a deeper understanding of the shrine.
Basic Concepts of Shinto
Shinto is an ancient Japanese faith that respects nature and ancestors and values purity. It is a practical religion centered on rituals and purification, without scriptures or a single founder.
Shinto Practice at Nagase Shrine
At Nagase Shrine, various Shinto rituals are performed throughout the year, preserving the traditions of Shinto. Visitors can connect with nature and the spirit of Shinto by visiting the shrine.
Significance and Benefits of Visiting
Visiting Nagase Shrine has various significances.
Blessings from the Enshrined Deities
- Amanokoyane-no-Mikoto: Academic success, bestowal of wisdom, power of words
- Amanofutotama-no-Mikoto: Industrial development, good fortune, family safety
- Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto: Improvement in performing arts, successful relationships, physical and mental health
Spiritual Significance
Visiting a shrine is a valuable opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and calm the mind. In the pure air of the sacred grounds, you can reflect on yourself and cultivate a sense of gratitude.
Points to Note When Visiting Nagase Shrine
Visiting Hours
Shrines are generally recommended to be visited during the daytime. Please refrain from visiting at night or in the early morning.
Checking Festival Days
Visiting on festival days allows you to see the shrine in a different light than usual. It is recommended to check the festival days in advance before visiting.
Contact Information
For detailed information regarding visits, please contact the Tottori Prefectural Shrine Association or the Yurihama Town Hall. ## Summary
Nagase Shrine is a historic shrine that has watched over the Yurihama Town (formerly Hawai Town), Tottori Prefecture (formerly Hawai Town), for over 570 years since its founding in 1449. The enshrined deities, invited from Ise and Omi Provinces, are believed to bring a wide range of blessings, including academics, industry, and performing arts.
The shrine’s construction on the gravel embankment of the Tenjin River reflects the earnest wishes of the people praying for flood control and safety in the region. Even after its name change during the Meiji era, Nagase Shrine continues to serve as the local guardian deity, preserving regional culture through festivals and annual events, and playing a central role in the community.
When visiting Yurihama Town, why not combine a visit to Nagase Shrine with sightseeing at Lake Togo and Hawai Onsen? You can enjoy a peaceful moment in the tranquil atmosphere of this historic shrine.
We hope you will be able to experience the rich nature, history, and culture woven together by the faith of the people of Tottori Prefecture through Nagase Shrine.
