Fujinomori Shrine｜藤森神社

Because of its long connection to the imperial family, Fujinomori Shrine’s main sanctuary enshrines many kami who were members of the imperial lineage in life.  In the “center seat” of the sanctuary Susano’o no Mikoto, Wakeikazuchi no Mikoto, Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, Empress Jingu, Emperor Ōjin, Emperor Nintoku, and Takenouchi no Sukune are enshrined, with Prince Toneri and Emperor Tenmu in the “east seat” and Prince Sawara, Prince Iyo, and Princess Igami in the “west seat”.

Fujinomori Shrine’s grounds are made lovely with a hydrangea garden, split into two parts in the north and southwest parts of the shrine.  At 5000 m² and containing 3,500 plants, this garden blooms in June during Japan’s rainy season, and the shrine also holds a Hydrangea Festival that month that features various offerings of performances and shrine rituals on certain days.  With flowers in a variety of colors from pink and white to blue and purple, you can take a seat in the garden gazebo or enjoy the sight strolling through.

Fujinomori Shrine has a reputation for prayers related to horses and victory, which makes it a particularly popular place for people in the horseracing industry.  Fans and bettors may be pleased to find charms for good luck at the track available at the shrine office, which will hopefully help you out with your next derby pick!

Free to enter and located just next to the shrine’s office and where you can purchase charms is the Fujinomori Shrine Hōmotsuden (Treasure Hall).  Though it is made up of only a single room, there are a lot of interesting treasures contained within, with a focus on horses as well as items related to Japan’s military traditions.  One wall is covered in horse figurines ranging from tiny to giant, with samples from various other countries as well as different periods in Japanese history.  A set of armor said to belong to Prince Sawara is located next to gold and black saddles and ancient bows, spears, and rifles, and there are also collections of various stationary goods and metalworks such as sword hilts and décor.  You can also view a katana made by Sanjō Munechika, a Heian period swordsmith who is known as the creator of some of Japan’s oldest and most beautiful swords.