Iwado Hachiman-jinja shrine, Shinto shrine in Japan
Iwado Hachiman-jinja is a small Shinto shrine in Komae marked by a traditional wooden gate and simple wooden buildings that reflect centuries of history. Mature trees shade the grounds and stone pathways lead to the main altar area, creating a quiet setting away from the busy city.
This shrine was founded around 1688 and has remained part of the local community for over 300 years. Despite changes in the surrounding city, it has maintained its role as a stable place where history and present-day life come together.
The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, a protective deity in Shinto religion venerated for watching over Japan and its communities. Visitors and locals come to make offerings and prayers for safety and good fortune, particularly during festivals when the neighborhood gathers for traditional ceremonies that keep their customs alive.
The shrine is about a 15-minute walk from Komae Station through quiet neighborhood streets and past small local shops. Visitors should follow local customs such as bowing and hand clapping when approaching the altar, and nearby cafes offer a place to rest after paying respects.
The shrine features two guardian statues called komainu, each with a cub, an uncommon design detail that stands out from typical shrine decorations. This pairing symbolizes protection and is often overlooked by visitors focused on the main altar area.
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