Ooarai Isosaki Shrine

Oarai Isosaki Jinja is an ancient shrine established in the Heian period, located on a hill at Cape Oarai in Oarai Town, Ibaraki Prefecture. It is said to have been founded in the 3rd year of the Saiko era (856 AD), and records in the "Nihon Montoku Tenno Jitsuroku" from that time indicate that the deities Oonamuchinomikoto (also known as Okuninushi) and Sukunahikonanomikoto descended upon the sacred rocks of Tokai. The two deities are believed to have worked together to enrich the land, promote medicine and industry, and save people from illness, leading to their widespread worship as the ancestors of medicine, gods of fortune, deities of marriage, and gods of knowledge and strength.

Oonamuchinomikoto, popularly known as "Daikoku-sama," is a benevolent god who grants prosperity and fortune. He is also famous for appearing in the myth of "Inaba no Shirousagi," where he healed a wounded white rabbit, earning him respect as a god of healing. Sukunahikonanomikoto is said to be small in stature and is believed to be the model for the fairy tale character "Inchomaru." He is regarded as a god of medicine who spread the use of medicinal practices and hot springs. It is said that the two deities returned to this land during a time of suffering caused by smallpox and famine, to "return to save the people."

The shrine's main building was destroyed during the Warring States period, but in the 3rd year of the Genroku era (1690), the second lord of the Mito Domain, Tokugawa Mitsukuni, ordered its reconstruction, which was completed in the 15th year of the Kyoho era (1730) during the reign of the third lord, Tokugawa Tsunashige. The current main shrine, worship hall, and gate for the guardian deities were rebuilt in the mid-Edo period and are designated as an important cultural property of Ibaraki Prefecture, representing the architectural style of the early Edo period. The main shrine features thatched roofing in a one-room style, while the worship hall is built in the irimoya style with intricate carvings, surrounded by a sacred forest that exudes the dignity and tranquility reminiscent of the Mito Domain era.

To the east of the shrine, facing the Pacific Ocean, stands the "Torii of Kamiso," where it is believed the deities descended. This torii, standing amidst the crashing waves, has a mystical aura, especially at sunrise, creating a breathtaking scene. During the winter solstice, many visitors and photographers gather to capture the stunning alignment of the torii and the morning sun. It is said that Tokugawa Mitsukuni praised this beautiful view.

The spring on the shrine grounds has long been known as "Mesarashi no I," a sacred water believed to be effective for eye ailments. During the Edo period, coastal hot spring treatments were also popular, bustling with people hoping for recovery from illness. Following the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, while tsunamis struck the shore, there were no reported human casualties around the shrine, and it is said that "sacred water" began to flow again, prompting many to visit and feel the divine protection.

Additionally, the shrine grounds include the "Oarai Marine Museum," which displays old fishing boats, fishing gear, documents related to the fishing industry, and specimens on whale evolution, making it a popular facility to learn about the history of Oarai intertwined with the sea.

In recent years, the shrine has also gained attention as a setting for the anime "Girls und Panzer." The grounds feature enormous ema (wooden plaques) depicting zodiac signs and character-themed itae (decorative plaques), attracting fans on pilgrimages to this holy site.

Oarai Isosaki Jinja is regarded as a powerful spiritual spot with numerous benefits, including fulfillment of love, safety in the home, good fortune, warding off misfortune, and maritime safety. The sacred landscapes, including the Torii of Kamiso, alongside the harmonious shrine building that conveys the elegance of the Edo period, provide solace and profound inspiration to all who visit.