Okadome Kumanoza Shrine (Happiness Shrine) [Kumamoto]

【Okadome Kumanoza Shrine Summary】

Okadome Kumanoza Shrine was built by Yoritoshi Sagara, the third generation of the Sagara family, during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), a time when there were fears of another war in Japan, to pray for national peace and the surrender of the enemy. The shrine is known as a shrine for praying for happiness by stopping difficulties. The deities are Izanaki no Mikoto, Izanami no Mikoto, and Hayatamaono no Okami.

【Okadome Happy Station】

The shrine is located in Okadome Park and is adjacent to “Okadome Happy Station”.

The station is tucked away in the countryside and has a rural appearance. At the entrance of the station building, there is a shimenawa (a sacred rope) and a bell, giving the station a shrine-like appearance. It is said that ringing the bell will bring happiness. In front of the station, there is a café and a store where visitors can purchase Okadome Koufuku Station tickets and related products.

Inside the station, Kumamon was sitting on a bench. There is also a yellow mailbox in front of the station, where you can properly send mail. There is also a yellow heart-shaped ema (votive picture tablet), which can be purchased at a nearby store.

【Torii of Kofuku Shrine in Okadome Park】

Okadome Park is a large park that includes Okadome Shrine. At the entrance of the park, there is a torii gate of the Happiness Shrine (Okadome Kumanoza Shrine), which looks divine during the cherry blossom season.

The park is a fun place for children to play and there were many cherry trees and people were viewing the cherry blossoms. I have the impression that the park is very much loved by the locals.

【Okadome Kumanoza Shrine】

Kumanoza Shrine is said to be a shrine of happiness because of its blessings for marital bliss, fertility, marriage, safe childbirth, and domestic safety.

The present shrine was built in 1931 and is dedicated to six deities. Kubogongen, Tenjin, Hachioji, Ninomiya-gami, Ikeo-gami, and Kitatake-Hiyoshi. The plateau where the shrine is located is called Okadome plateau. Pottery from the Jomon and Yayoi periods has been excavated, and in the Middle Ages there was a castle called Kurodahira Castle.

【Okadome Kumanoza Shrine Access】