Takebe Shrine
建部大社- Karahashimae Station
- Walk 14 minutes
Takebe Taisha is a historic Shinto shrine located in Otsu. It is recognised as an Engishiki-listed shrine, indicating its acknowledged religious and historical importance, and it served as the ichinomiya (principal shrine) of the former Ōmi Province. Throughout its history, it has been regarded as a major religious center in the region.
The shrine enshrines two principal kami: Yamato Takeru (Yamato Takeru no Mikoto), a legendary prince known for his military campaigns against regional tribes in ancient Japan, and Onamuchi (Onamuchi no Mikoto, also known as Okuninushi), a deity associated with nation-building and prosperity.
Yamato Takeru is traditionally venerated for blessings related to good fortune, protection from misfortune and calamity, advancement in life, and victory. Ōnamuchi is associated with harmonious relationships, business prosperity, household safety, healing, and brewing.
According to shrine tradition, Yamato Takeru died at the age of 30 after subduing western and eastern tribes. His father, Emperor Keikō, is said to have honored his achievements by establishing a shrine in 116 CE in the region of Takebe. The original sanctuary was later relocated to its present site in Seta during the reign of Emperor Tenmu in the 7th century.
Shrine Precincts and Cultural Properties
The approach to the shrine begins at the first torii gate and continues along a gravel path lined with stone lanterns, leading to a second torii and the main gate. Visitors purify themselves at the temizuya (ablution pavilion) before passing through the gate into the sacred precinct.
The worship hall (haiden) stands before the main sanctuary. The main hall (honden) enshrines Yamato Takeru, while an adjacent auxiliary hall enshrines Onamuchi. Surrounding the main sanctuary are eight subsidiary shrines dedicated to members of Yamato Takeru’s family and his retainers.
Within the grounds is also Ono Shrine, dedicated to a local tutelary deity worshipped in the area prior to the relocation of Takebe Taisha.
Takebe Taisha preserves several objects and sites of historical and cultural interest:
- Sacred Spring (Takebe no Goshinsui): Associated with Minamoto no Yoritomo’s prayer for success, the water is sometimes referred to as “Yoritomo’s water for advancement”.
- Three Sacred Cedars: Said to have grown overnight when Onamuchi was enshrined.
- Stone Lantern (1270): The oldest in Shiga Prefecture, designated an Important Cultural Property.
- Chrysanthemum Stone: A naturally patterned stone resembling the imperial chrysanthemum crest.
- Sazare-ishi: A conglomerate stone associated with the national anthem Kimigayo, symbolizing longevity and prosperity.
- Heian-period Goddess Statues: Designated Important Cultural Properties (viewing requires reservation and an admission fee).
- Early 1,000-Yen Banknote: Issued in 1945 and depicting Yamato Takeru and Takebe Taisha; it was in circulation for only a short period.
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