Okunitama Shrine: Historical Gem in Fuchu, Tokyo

If you’re planning a visit to Tokyo and love exploring shrines, Okunitama Shrine in Fuchu should be on your list. Although it takes about 30 minutes by train from Shinjuku, this ancient shrine, rich in history and serene beauty, offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s past.

A Brief History

Officially known as Okunitama Shrine, it is dedicated to the deity Okunitama-no-Okami. The shrine was founded in 111 AD during the reign of Emperor Keiko, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan. The name “Fuchu” originates from the fact that this area was once the administrative center of Musashi Province, encompassing present-day Tokyo, Saitama, Kawasaki, and Yokohama.

The shrine moved to its current location during the Taika Reform in 645 AD, which established Fuchu as the provincial government center. Historical records tell of Minamoto no Yoshiie and his son Yoshitsune praying for victory in battle here, and Minamoto no Yoritomo, their descendant, praying for his wife’s safe childbirth.

Significance of Okunitama Shrine

Okunitama Shrine is the Soja Shrine of Musashi Province, meaning it enshrines deities from six key shrines within the province. This consolidation allowed officials to offer prayers to multiple deities at a single location, making it a significant religious site. The six shrines represented are:

  1. Ono Shrine (Tokyo, Tama City)
  2. Ninomiya Shrine (Tokyo, Akiruno City)
  3. Hikawa Shrine (Saitama, Omiya Ward)
  4. Chichibu Shrine (Saitama, Chichibu City)
  5. Kanisawa Shrine (Saitama, Kamikawa Town)
  6. Sugiyama Shrine (Kanagawa, Yokohama City)

Praying at Okunitama Shrine is believed to provide the same blessings as visiting all six shrines individually.

Architectural and Natural Beauty

The shrine complex features historical structures, including the main hall (honden) built in 1667 and the drum tower (korou) rebuilt in 1854. These buildings showcase traditional Japanese architectural styles and are surrounded by ancient trees, adding to the shrine’s timeless atmosphere.

The approach to the shrine is lined with an impressive avenue of zelkova trees (Keyaki), known as Baba Daimon Keyaki Avenue. This natural monument is designated as a national natural treasure and adds to the serene and majestic ambiance of the shrine.

Famous Worshippers

Notable historical figures such as Minamoto no Yoshiie, Minamoto no Yoshitsune, and Tokugawa Ieyasu have all prayed at Okunitama Shrine, adding to its historical significance. Their faith in the shrine underscores its importance as a spiritual center.

Seasonal Highlights

Throughout the year, Okunitama Shrine hosts various festivals and events.When I visited, there was a Sumomo Festival going on, where I enjoyed various games and food.

This is called “kingyo-sukui,” a game where you scoop live goldfish with a paper scoop. You need to scoop the fish without tearing the paper, and the game ends as soon as the paper rips. You can take home the goldfish you manage to scoop, or you can choose to release them back into the tank.

This is a banana covered with chocolate.

You can buy even vegetables.

During my visit, I even saw a local enjoying a nap on the shrine grounds—a charmingly authentic sight!　However, please note that this is considered disrespectful to the gods, so it’s best not to imitate this behavior.

Summary

Okunitama Shrine, with its ancient history and enduring local significance, continues to be loved by the community and hosts various events throughout the year. It’s a highly recommended spot for shrine enthusiasts, offering a rich blend of culture, history, and community spirit.

Access

Gate Opening Hours:

  • 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM (September 15 – March 31)
  • 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM (April 1 – September 14)

Prayer Services:

  • 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Goshuin Reception:

  • 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

By Train:

  • Keio Line: 5-minute walk from the South Exit of Fuchu Station
  • JR Nambu Line and Musashino Line: 5-minute walk from Fuchu-Hommachi Station

Travel Time from Major Stations:

  • Approximately 25 minutes from Shinjuku
  • Approximately 30 minutes from Shibuya

You can refer in detail from HP