By ando 
Oosugi jinja (Oosugi Shrine), located in Inashiki City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a distinguished jinja often called “Ibaraki’s Nikko Toshogu Shrine” due to its overwhelming splendor. However, the charm of this jinja goes beyond its visual beauty. It has been affectionately known as “Anba-sama” since ancient times, harboring many mysterious legends and surprising anecdotes that appeal to modern fans.
Basic Information
Location: 958 Awa, Inashiki City, Ibaraki Prefecture
Enshrined kami: Oomononushikushimikatama-no-mikoto
Main Divine Blessings: Yume Musubi (connecting with and fulfilling dreams), warding off evil, family safety, traffic safety, certain victory in horse racing.
Legends and Mystery: The Giant Cedar and the Shadow of Tengu
Oosugi jinja takes its name from a gigantic sacred cedar tree (goshinboku) that once towered over the shrine grounds. This cedar was so immense that it was affectionately called “Anba-sama” and revered since ancient times as a guardian kami for maritime travel and fishing.
The most famous legend associated with this area is the “Tengu Legend.” During the Heian period, it is said that Hitachibo Kaison (also known as a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune), who visited this land, performed numerous miracles through the power of Oosugi jinja’s sacred tree. Kaison is believed to have later transformed into a Tengu and continues to protect this land even today. Within the shrine grounds stand impressive statues of “Hanataka Tengu” (the long-nosed Tengu, also known as Negai Tengu, or “Wish-granting Tengu”) and “Karasu Tengu” (the crow-billed Tengu, also known as Kanai Tengu, or “Fulfilling Tengu”). These Tengu are said to act as intermediaries, delivering the wishes of worshippers to the kami.
Japan’s Only “Yume Musubi” Daimyojin
Oosugi jinja is the only shrine in Japan that promotes “Yume Musubi,” or the “tying of dreams.” This is not merely about having wishes granted, but about connecting your personal dreams and goals with the kami, who then guide you towards their realization.
Particularly unique are the “Masayume Omamori” (amulets for true dreams) and a specific method of worship that provides concrete steps for achieving your dreams. It involves reconfirming your aspirations and taking a decisive step forward with the assistance of the Tengu’s power. As a power spot brimming with such positive energy, Oosugi jinja continuously draws worshippers from across the country.
Inside Story: A Pilgrimage Site for Horse Racing Fans and “Uma Musume” Enthusiasts
Oosugi jinja holds a strong connection to competitive endeavors, particularly those involving horses. Kachiuma jinja, a sub-shrine within the grounds, is renowned for attracting many horse racing officials and jockeys who come to pray for certain victory, partly due to its proximity to the JRA (Japan Racing Association) Miho Training Center.
In recent years, it is also common to see fans of the popular content “Uma Musume Pretty Derby” visiting as part of a pilgrimage, seeking the divine blessing of “Kachiuma” (victorious horses). Ema (votive tablets) are offered, wishing for the victory of their favorite characters, success in gacha draws, and even for the peaceful post-retirement lives of racehorses. This creates a fascinating sight where traditional faith and modern subculture blend seamlessly.
Architectural Beauty and the “Mouse Gate”
The vividly colored carvings adorning the main shrine building are simply magnificent. However, be sure to pay special attention to the “Nezumi no Mon” (Mouse Gate), which is a romon (two-storied gate). It features intricate mouse carvings, deriving from the myth of a mouse that helped Okuninushi-no-mikoto (who is identified with Oomononushi-no-mikoto). There is a tradition that passing through this gate brings good fortune in money and blessings of children, making it a popular, hidden photo spot.
Tips for Visiting
When you visit Oosugi jinja, start by expressing your “dreams” at the lavish main shrine building. Afterwards, earnestly pray before the Tengu statues for their support in achieving those dreams. It is also said that the best route to maximize your luck is to purify your spirit by performing “kawarake-wari” (plate breaking to ward off evil) within the grounds, and then proceed to Kachiuma jinja.
Oosugi jinja is a place where history, legends, and modern enthusiasm intersect. Step inside, and you are sure to have a wondrous experience that makes you forget your daily routine, enveloped by its overwhelming colors and the mystical presence of the Tengu.
Related Links / References
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