Ono Shrine [Tokyo]

【Ono Shrine Summary】

Ono Shrine’s founding date is unknown. Its name first appears in a 772 (Hōki 3) Imperial Decree issued by the Imperial Court, suggesting it was an ancient shrine existing prior to that date. Records indicate it was relocated multiple times due to Tama River flooding. In Fuchu, two Ono Shrines existed, with one considered the main shrine and the other a branch shrine. Given its location near the Tama River, the shrine appears to emphasize the water deity characteristics of Seoritsu-hime.

The principal deities enshrined here are Amenoshitaharunomikoto and Seoritsuhimenomikoto.

【Seoritsuhime no Mikoto?】

Seoritsuhime no Mikoto is a goddess of purification who is said to possess the power to wash away all sins and impurities from rivers into the sea (i.e., purification and healing). She is a mysterious goddess who does not appear in the Kojiki or Nihon Shoki and is also called the “Sealed God.” She appears at the beginning of the Shinto prayer, the “Ōharai no Kotoba.”

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【The Ichinomiya of Musashi Province?】

Currently, the principal shrines of Musashi Province are Hikawa Shrine and Hikawa Myojin Shrine (dedicated to the divine couple Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Kushinada-hime-no-Mikoto) in Saitama City. However, originally, when Ōkuninushi Shrine—the provincial shrine of Musashi—was founded, Ono Shrine was designated as the principal shrine (Ichinomiya) and Hikawa Shrine as the third shrine (Sannomiya). Later, though the exact circumstances are unclear, it appears that during the Heian period, the ranks of the two shrines were reversed.

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【Ono Shrine worshipper’s path】

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There is a magnificent torii gate, but the main shrine building at the front of the approach also faces west. It’s an approach that follows the flow of the Tama River.

【Ono Shrine Zuishinmon Gate】

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The vivid vermilion-lacquered Zuishinmon Gate features delicate carvings.

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The Zuishinmon Gate also bears the chrysanthemum crest (the sixteen-petal crest), suggesting it flourished due to the reverence of the Hōjō clan and figures like Ōta Dōkan.

【Later Hojo clan?】

The original surname was “Hojo,” but to distinguish them from the Hojo clan who served as shikken (regents) of the Kamakura shogunate, they are also referred to as the “Later Hojo clan” by adding the prefix “Later.”

【Ono Shrine Temizuya】

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The flower hand-watering at Temizuya was well-maintained and splendid. You can feel the dedication of the shrine priests.

【Ono Shrine worship hall】

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The shrine has been relocated multiple times, and the existing structures are relatively new, having been rebuilt after past disasters and wartime destruction. The worship hall and main hall are uniformly painted red.

【Ono Shrine Heart-shaped protective stone】

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A rare heart-shaped stone for warding off misfortune was placed here, a sight uncommon even nationwide. It is said that stroking this stone dispels misfortune and grants good fortune in relationships, making it popular among young visitors.

【Ono Shrine GOSHUIN】

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【Ono Shrine Nearby attractions】

Keiō Mogusaen, MogusaHachiman Shrine, Takahata-Fudoson, Ono Shrine (Fuchu City)

【This Stroll Route】

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【Ono Shrine Access】

Manager’s Comments

This shrine has a long history, but it felt rather sparse and quiet with few trees. Since it’s close to the Tama River, I wondered if perhaps trees had been washed away in the past? That thought crossed my mind as I paid my respects. Seoritsu Hime no Mikoto is the deity of flood control and purification. I imagine the Tama River used to rage violently in the past, so I believe the flood control deity Seoritsu Hime no Mikoto was enshrined here at Ono Shrine, located by the riverbank. The open grounds feel pleasant to me personally, though as a principal shrine, it left me feeling slightly underwhelmed. Visitors might consider combining a visit here with the nearby Keiō Mogusaen.

Scale
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Access
 (4.5)
History and Origins
 (4)
Nature and Landscape
 (3)
Stillness
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Types of Goshuin
 (3.5)


Address of the Ono Shrine

1-18-8 Ichinomiya, Tama City, Tokyo 206-0002

※Free parking available.

Approximately a 2-minute walk from Seiseki-Sakuragaoka Station on the Keio Line

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