Wakasahiko Shrine (Wakasa Ichinomiya, Upper Shrine)

Overview

Wakasahiko Shrine is a shrine located in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, known as Wakasa Kokubunomiya (the most important shrine in Wakasa Province). Boasting a history of over 1300 years, it was formerly called "Onshu Myojin". Tradition says it was founded on September 10th, 714 (Wadō 7), initially located in Shiraishi no Sato, present-day Ryuzan, Obama City. The following year, September 10th, 715 (Ryōkei 1), it was moved to its current location. Wakasahiko Shrine consists of the upper shrine, which enshrines Hikohosodeminomikoto, and the lower shrine, which enshrines Toyotamahime-no-mikoto. Together, they are referred to as "Wakasahiko Shrine" or "Jōge-gū (upper and lower shrines)". Wakasahiko Shrine has been a center of faith for people for over 1300 years. The grounds are surrounded by majestic nature and enveloped in tranquility. In this space filled with sacred air, you can cleanse your mind and body and soothe the weariness of daily life. Wakasahiko Shrine is also said to bestow blessings of bountiful harvests, household safety, and maritime safety, and has been cherished by the local people for generations. Various festivals are held throughout the year at Wakasahiko Shrine. Among the most famous is "Omisogi (water offering ceremony)". This is based on the legend that when Onshu Myojin was invited to the Shuni-e (annual ritual) at Todai-ji's Nigatsu-do Hall in Nara City, Onshu Myojin was late due to busy fishing activities. To apologize, the ceremony of sending consecrated water to the principal image of the eleven-headed Kannon in Nigatsu-do began. Every February, the "Omisogi Shinji" ceremony takes place, sending water from a pool called Unose to Nigatsu-do Hall. Wakasahiko Shrine is a tranquil space surrounded by history and nature. Why not feel the breath of the ancients, give thanks for the divine blessings, and cleanse your mind and body?