Saruta Hiko Shrine

Sarutahiko Shrine enshrines Sarutahiko Okami, who is known in Japanese mythology as the god of “michihiraki” — opening the way — as its principal deity. It is located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, near the Inner Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine.

Long revered as a deity who appears at the beginning of things and guides everything in a good direction, the shrine is widely cherished by people praying for traffic safety, good fortune, and success at major turning points in life.

■ Sarutahiko Okami and Japanese Mythology
Sarutahiko Okami appears in the “Kojiki” and the “Nihon Shoki,” and played an important role in the Descent of the Heavenly Grandchild.
When Ninigi no Mikoto, sent by Amaterasu Omikami, descended to earth, it was Sarutahiko Okami who guided him. This is why he came to be worshipped as the god of “michihiraki.”
It is also said that Sarutahiko Okami later returned with Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto to the upper reaches of the Isuzu River in Ise, where he was involved in the development of this land and others.

■ A Deep Connection with Ise Grand Shrine
Ota no Mikoto, believed to be a descendant of Sarutahiko Okami, recommended the Uji area upstream of the Isuzu River as the site of the Inner Shrine of Ise Grand Shrine during the pilgrimage of Yamato-hime-no-Mikoto.
As a result, the present-day Kogyo Shrine (Inner Shrine) was established there. For this reason, Sarutahiko Okami’s lineage has a very deep connection with Ise Grand Shrine.
In addition, the Ujitoko family, said to descend from Sarutahiko Okami, has served as priests for generations and also held the special position of Tamagushi Ouchi-bito at Ise Grand Shrine, taking part in important rites such as the Shikinen Sengu.

■ Blessings
The main blessings of Sarutahiko Okami are as follows:
- “Michihiraki,” guiding things in a better direction
- Good luck and prosperity
- Success in study and improvement in work fortune
- Traffic safety
- Protection from unfavorable directions (warding off all directions)
- Success when starting something new

It is said to be especially beneficial to visit before life transitions or new challenges.

■ Highlights within the shrine grounds
● Hōi-ishi (Kodenchi)
An octagonal stone pillar in front of the main hall, marking the place where the shrine building once stood (the sacred seat). It was regarded as the sacred seat until the reconstruction in 1936 and is a sacred place with directions and zodiac signs engraved on it.
It is believed that touching it brings good fortune and guidance, and many worshippers touch it while making their wishes. There is no fixed order for touching it, though it is said to be good to touch the stone corresponding to your zodiac sign or a related direction.

● The Meaning of the Octagon
Octagonal forms can be seen throughout the shrine grounds. The octagon represents “direction” and “warding off all directions,” symbolizing protection from misfortune from every direction and guidance toward a better path.

● Sarume Shrine
A subsidiary shrine within the grounds, enshrining Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto.
Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto is known for dancing kagura when Amaterasu Omikami hid in the cave, and is the deity of performing arts, arts and crafts, and matchmaking.
It is believed to bring blessings such as:
- Improvement in performing arts
- Advancement in artistic skills
- Fulfillment in love
Many people in the entertainment industry and those wishing to improve their skills in lessons and hobbies visit this shrine.

● Sazare-ishi
Located near Sarume Shrine, this auspicious stone is known from the national anthem “Kimigayo.” It is formed when small stones have, over a long period, become one large rock, and is regarded as a symbol of growth and prosperity.

● Takara-ishi
A stone on the right after passing through the torii gate, said to resemble a treasure ship or a white snake, making it a symbol of financial luck and good fortune. It is a popular spot, and many people take photos of it and use them as their smartphone wallpaper.

● Kodakara-ike
A pond behind the purification basin where koi swim. It is believed to bring blessings for fertility and descendants, reflecting faith connected to the continuing lineage of Sarutahiko Okami.

● Omita
Behind the main hall is a sacred rice field, where the Ota Festival is held every year on May 5. It is a Shinto rite praying for a good harvest and has been designated as an Intangible Cultural Property of Mie Prefecture.

■ Other Features
- There are ema plaques depicting the “Michibiki no Mai,” symbolizing wishes being guided in a good direction.
- The shrine grounds are quiet and filled with a sacred atmosphere, and many people visit here at major turning points in life.

■ Summary
Sarutahiko Shrine is a special shrine that enshrines the god of “michihiraki,” who guides the path of life in a good direction. With deep historical ties to Ise Grand Shrine, it has attracted people’s faith from ancient times to the present day.
It is said that visiting the shrine when starting something new or facing a major life transition can help lead you in a better direction, making it a place of comfort and support for many people.