Worshippers passed through the south gate of the Samukawa Shrine, flanked by trees, one after another

Gate between trees in Samukawa Jinja — South Gate of Samukawa Jinja

It is not clear when this Samukawa Jinja Shrine was founded. However, it is certain that it has a long history, and the name of the shrine is mentioned in the Engi-shiki (Engi Shiki), which was compiled in 927. This means that the shrine dates back at least 1,000 years. According to the legend, the shrine had already received offerings of sacred objects from the imperial court as early as 1600 years ago, during the reign of Emperor Yuryaku, which means that the shrine has a history of about 1600 years. However, there are many Jomon-era burial mounds in the area, so the shrine's function as a sacred site may date back to prehistoric times.

The buildings within the precincts of the shrine with such a long history, including the shrine pavilions, the guest pavilions, and the shrine office, are all relatively new. It is difficult to get a sense of the long history of this shrine just by looking at the buildings. Although some of the buildings are designated as important cultural properties by Kanagawa Prefecture and the town of Samukawa, there are no statues, masks, or portable shrines designated as such.

While wandering around, I came to the approach to the shrine. It is a narrow approach that is not the main approach. At the end of the approach, we could see the South Gate. I saw many worshippers passing through the gate and heading toward the shrine.

Comment via

日本語