Nomi no Sukune Shrine, shrine in Tatsuno, Hyōgo
Nomi no Sukune Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Tatsuno dedicated to a legendary figure connected to the early origins of sumo wrestling. The structure features a simple traditional design with wooden beams and is surrounded by trees, with stone lanterns and small statues lining the approach path.
According to legend, about 2000 years ago Nomi no Sukune was a prominent figure who founded the sumo wrestling tradition and defeated a ring champion, then served Emperor Sujin. After his death while traveling home, local people built this shrine from stones to honor him, an act that reportedly gave the city Tatsuno its name.
The shrine honors Nomi no Sukune, a legendary figure central to early sumo wrestling in Japan. Visitors can observe how the local community preserves his memory through simple rituals and occasional festivals that feature traditional music and period costumes.
The shrine is about 40 minutes on foot from Hon Tatsuno Station, or visitors can drive and park nearby. The surroundings are clean and well-maintained, with quiet roads that make for a pleasant walk through the area.
The shrine was built where Nomi no Sukune reportedly died while traveling home, and local people gathered stones from the river to construct his grave. This act of honoring him through stone gathering is so connected to the place that it reportedly inspired the name Tatsuno for the city.
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