Omiya Hachiman Shrine

Overview

Omiya Hachiman Shrine, located in Omiya, Suginami-ku, Tokyo, was established by Minamoto no Yoritomo. One of the three great shrines of Musashi Province, it's also known as "Tama no Omiya" and boasts the third-largest grounds in Tokyo, approximately 14,000 tsubo (about 46,000 square meters). The grounds are lush and green, offering a natural oasis in the heart of the city. Legend says that during the Conquest of the North, Minamoto no Yoritomo saw eight streaks of white clouds while traveling through Musashi Province. Interpreting this as an auspicious sign of divine protection from Hachiman, he vowed to build a shrine at that very spot upon his return. After securing victory in 1063, he enshrined a divine spirit from the Ishimizu Hachiman Shrine and founded the shrine. Within the grounds sits a large Kurakake-no-matsu (saddle-hung pine tree) said to have been planted by Minamoto no Yoshiie upon his return from the Conquest of the North, adding to its historical significance. The sacred grove (shaku) is designated as a Tokyo Natural Monument, preserving a glimpse of the Musashino landscape even after much of Suginami-ku became urbanized. Ancient trees are scattered throughout, including a Bodhi tree over 350 years old, reportedly planted by the Kiyoryoin temple. The ginkgo trees flanking the sacred gate are considered sacred. Under the patronage of the third Shogun, Tokugawa Iemitsu, 1,000 azaleas were planted; today, 6,000 azaleas of 16 varieties bloom brilliantly, known as "Yama-terasu-tsutsuji" (mountain-illuminating azaleas). Other rich vegetation includes black oak and medicinal herbs. Omiya Hachiman Shrine is particularly known for its blessings for child-rearing and safe childbirth, drawing worshippers from far and wide. Situated near the geographical center of Tokyo, including the Tama region, it's also nicknamed "Tokyo's Navel". Located just south of Wada-bori Park bordering the Zenpukuji River, the sacred water, once known as "Tama no Omiya-mizu", is now pumped from the ground as the natural spring has dried up.