Ichinomiya Sengen Shrine, Shinto shrine in Ichikawamisato, Nishiyatsushiro district, Yamanashi prefecture, Japan
Ichinomiya Sengen Shrine is a small traditional shrine in the town of Ichikawamisato with a simple wooden building and a gently curved roof in the nagare-zukuri style. The grounds feel peaceful and welcoming, with a simple gate and pathways leading to the main altar building.
The shrine was founded long ago, possibly over two thousand years ago during the reign of Emperor Keikō in the first century. It was built to honor Mount Fuji after a major eruption, and during the Muromachi period the powerful Takeda clan supported it and helped ensure its survival.
The shrine honors Konohanasakuya-hime, a goddess linked to Mount Fuji and blossoms. Visitors can observe traditional practices like hand washing at a small basin near the entrance, a ritual called temizu meant to purify the mind and body.
The shrine is about 12 minutes walk from Ichikawa-Daimon Station on the JR East Minobu Line. The location remains quiet and secluded, with no busy markets nearby, making it a good spot for a short walk or a moment of quiet reflection.
The main shrine building was constructed in 1703 and still stands as a witness to the long history of the place. A special artifact is an ancient bronze mirror called Shinju-kyo, discovered in a nearby ancient burial mound and possibly from the Chinese Three Kingdoms period, showing signs of early trade between Japan and Asia.
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