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FAMILIARS AND FORTUNES
Visitors to shrines & temples for a long time have enjoyed having their fortunes determined by lucky dip, but in recent years Kyōto's familiars have helped kickstart a new craze for collecting 'Omikuji' (御御籤 'sacred lots').
#folklorethursday
Omikuji are rolled strips of paper that are picked blindly. Each 'sacred lot' is printed with a random fortune, often detailing how lucky your love life, health & happiness will be for the year (or until your next Omikuji).
Fortunes vary from 'great blessing' to 'great curse'.
Fortunes vary from 'great blessing' to 'great curse'.
Many shrines & temples across Kyōto & Japan are now using familiars (of the gods & Bodhisattvas enshrined) to promote & sell their Omikuji.
These small clay or wooden figures, holding the Omikuji (aka 'Otsuge' お告げ 'divine message'), can be taken home once the fortune is read.
These small clay or wooden figures, holding the Omikuji (aka 'Otsuge' お告げ 'divine message'), can be taken home once the fortune is read.
We have talked about Kyōto's familiars before, but for #folklorethursday I'm going to start a thread of the city's most 'beautiful' Omikuji.
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1235040691815731200?s=20
Please feel free to add your own photos, favourite Omikuji and beloved familiars
#Kyoto #Japan #folklore
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1235040691815731200?s=20
Please feel free to add your own photos, favourite Omikuji and beloved familiars
#Kyoto #Japan #folklore
1) SQUIRRELS
Squirrels (りす/栗鼠) are the divine messengers of Hirano-jinja's (平野神社) gods. They once populated the shrine's pine forest, and thus over time became associated with the enshrined gods.
Since Edo times Hirano-jinja has become better known for its sakura trees.
Squirrels (りす/栗鼠) are the divine messengers of Hirano-jinja's (平野神社) gods. They once populated the shrine's pine forest, and thus over time became associated with the enshrined gods.
Since Edo times Hirano-jinja has become better known for its sakura trees.
2) BOARS
Boars are familiars of Marishiten (摩利支天), goddess of 'victory & abundance'.
Pale-faced & brightly garbed, Marishiten is seen riding seven golden boars. She was particularly popular with warriors, and is worshipped at Zenkyo-an (禅居庵-aka Marishiten-dō 摩利支天堂).
Boars are familiars of Marishiten (摩利支天), goddess of 'victory & abundance'.
Pale-faced & brightly garbed, Marishiten is seen riding seven golden boars. She was particularly popular with warriors, and is worshipped at Zenkyo-an (禅居庵-aka Marishiten-dō 摩利支天堂).
3) PRINCESSES
Unusually Ichihime-jinja (市比売神社) enshrines only goddesses, & is thus considered a protector of women only. Popular with the palace women, it was once known as the 'Empress Shrine' (皇后御祈願所).
The shrine sells Hime-mikuji (姫みくじ 'Fortune Princesses').
Unusually Ichihime-jinja (市比売神社) enshrines only goddesses, & is thus considered a protector of women only. Popular with the palace women, it was once known as the 'Empress Shrine' (皇后御祈願所).
The shrine sells Hime-mikuji (姫みくじ 'Fortune Princesses').
4) YATAGARASU
Emperor Jimmu (Japan's 1st emperor) was guided from Kumano to Yamato by a divine, 3-legged crow (八咫烏).
The 'Yatagarasu' was believed to be an incarnation of Kamo Taketsunumi (賀茂建角身命), one of the gods later enshrined at Shimogamo-jinja (下鴨神社).
#Kyoto
Emperor Jimmu (Japan's 1st emperor) was guided from Kumano to Yamato by a divine, 3-legged crow (八咫烏).
The 'Yatagarasu' was believed to be an incarnation of Kamo Taketsunumi (賀茂建角身命), one of the gods later enshrined at Shimogamo-jinja (下鴨神社).
#Kyoto
5) HORSES
Many shrines sell horse Omikuji because the animals were once made as offerings to the gods (the origin of 'Ema' 絵馬 votive tablets).
Kamigamo-jinja (上賀茂神社) has long had an association with horses, & they play a prominent role in the shrine's Aoi Matsuri (葵祭).
Many shrines sell horse Omikuji because the animals were once made as offerings to the gods (the origin of 'Ema' 絵馬 votive tablets).
Kamigamo-jinja (上賀茂神社) has long had an association with horses, & they play a prominent role in the shrine's Aoi Matsuri (葵祭).
6) FUKUROKUJU
Fukurokuju (福禄寿) is the god of wisdom, longevity, wealth & happiness. In Kyōto he is worshipped at Sekizanzen-in (赤山禅院), 1 of 7 sites that make up a pilgrimage to the '7 Gods of Fortune' (七福神).
The Omikuji here are known as Osugata-mikuji (お姿みくじ).
Fukurokuju (福禄寿) is the god of wisdom, longevity, wealth & happiness. In Kyōto he is worshipped at Sekizanzen-in (赤山禅院), 1 of 7 sites that make up a pilgrimage to the '7 Gods of Fortune' (七福神).
The Omikuji here are known as Osugata-mikuji (お姿みくじ).
7) RABBITS
Okazaki-jinja (岡崎神社) is also known as the 'Rabbit Shrine' (うさぎ神社).
The shrine gods Susanoo (素盞嗚尊) & Kushinadahime (奇稻田姫命) were blessed with many children, and as a result rabbits (known for their fertility) became considered their familiars.
#Japan
Okazaki-jinja (岡崎神社) is also known as the 'Rabbit Shrine' (うさぎ神社).
The shrine gods Susanoo (素盞嗚尊) & Kushinadahime (奇稻田姫命) were blessed with many children, and as a result rabbits (known for their fertility) became considered their familiars.
#Japan
8) ZODIAC
Hedging their bets, many religious sites offer Zodiac Omikuji (as everyone has a Zodiac sign).
There are 12 animals in the Chinese Zodiac...this is the 'Year of the Ox'.
Inaba-dō Byōdō-ji (因幡堂平等寺) is just one temple selling these Omikuji.
Hedging their bets, many religious sites offer Zodiac Omikuji (as everyone has a Zodiac sign).
There are 12 animals in the Chinese Zodiac...this is the 'Year of the Ox'.
Inaba-dō Byōdō-ji (因幡堂平等寺) is just one temple selling these Omikuji.
9) TENGU
Mt Kurama (鞍馬山/鞍馬寺) has long been considered to be the home of Tengu (天狗)...semi-divine creatures that protect the forests & mountains.
Minamoto-no-Yoshitsune (源義経 1159-89) is said to have been trained in martial arts here by the Tengu king Sōjōbō (僧正坊).
Mt Kurama (鞍馬山/鞍馬寺) has long been considered to be the home of Tengu (天狗)...semi-divine creatures that protect the forests & mountains.
Minamoto-no-Yoshitsune (源義経 1159-89) is said to have been trained in martial arts here by the Tengu king Sōjōbō (僧正坊).
10) PIGEONS
Pigeons are familiars of Hachiman (八幡神), god of archery & war.
In 859 the god instructed Gyōkyō (行教) to found a shrine (Iwashimizu Hachiman-gū 石清水八幡宮) for him in Kyōto, so he might guard the imperial city. A golden dove led the monk to a suitable spot.
Pigeons are familiars of Hachiman (八幡神), god of archery & war.
In 859 the god instructed Gyōkyō (行教) to found a shrine (Iwashimizu Hachiman-gū 石清水八幡宮) for him in Kyōto, so he might guard the imperial city. A golden dove led the monk to a suitable spot.
11) HOTEI
Another of the '7 Gods of Fortune', Hotei's home in Kyōto can be found at Manpuku-ji (萬福寺).
To many Hotei is a Santa-like figure: he is god of fortune, abundance & popularity, guardian of children, & patron of diviners & barmen! He distributes fortune from his bag.
Another of the '7 Gods of Fortune', Hotei's home in Kyōto can be found at Manpuku-ji (萬福寺).
To many Hotei is a Santa-like figure: he is god of fortune, abundance & popularity, guardian of children, & patron of diviners & barmen! He distributes fortune from his bag.
12) MANEKI NEKO
Another Omikuji not particular to any one shrine or temple, Maneki-neko (招き猫 'Beckoning Cat') is a popular Japanese symbol, ushering in good luck to the possessor.
Appearing in the late Edo period, it is unclear where Maneki Neko originated (Kyōto or Tōkyō).
Another Omikuji not particular to any one shrine or temple, Maneki-neko (招き猫 'Beckoning Cat') is a popular Japanese symbol, ushering in good luck to the possessor.
Appearing in the late Edo period, it is unclear where Maneki Neko originated (Kyōto or Tōkyō).
13) TIGERS
Tigers guard Ryōsoku-in's Bishamonten-dō (両足院/毘沙門天堂), enshrining the god of warriors & scourge of evildoers.
Bishamonten, chief of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王 'Shitennō'), first appeared in Japan on the hour and day of the tiger, in the year of the tiger.
Tigers guard Ryōsoku-in's Bishamonten-dō (両足院/毘沙門天堂), enshrining the god of warriors & scourge of evildoers.
Bishamonten, chief of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王 'Shitennō'), first appeared in Japan on the hour and day of the tiger, in the year of the tiger.
14) BISHAMONTEN
Ryōsoku-in also has a charming Omikuji of Bishamonten himself. Depicted wearing heavy armour, & often carrying a pagoda, he is 1 of the '7 Gods of Fortune'.
Associated with authority, Bishamonten is considered guardian of those who follow the rules and 'behave'!
Ryōsoku-in also has a charming Omikuji of Bishamonten himself. Depicted wearing heavy armour, & often carrying a pagoda, he is 1 of the '7 Gods of Fortune'.
Associated with authority, Bishamonten is considered guardian of those who follow the rules and 'behave'!
15) BOARS (Part 2)
Thanks to a miraculous story in which an exiled and injured Wake-no-Kiyomaro (和気清麻呂 733–99) was saved from assassins by 300 wild pigs, the grounds of Goō-jinja (護王神社) are filled with images of boars...familiars of the shrine.
#folklorethursday
Thanks to a miraculous story in which an exiled and injured Wake-no-Kiyomaro (和気清麻呂 733–99) was saved from assassins by 300 wild pigs, the grounds of Goō-jinja (護王神社) are filled with images of boars...familiars of the shrine.
#folklorethursday
Phew...well I'm going to call it quits for today. Thanks for following along. I'll be adding to this thread every now and then
16) OXEN
Cows are familiars of the god Tenjin (天神). You can find out more about them here
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1351320678759219200?s=20
Ayako Tenman-gū (文子天満宮) is considered to be forerunner of Kitano Tenman-gū. After a ghostly visit, it was founded by Tajihi-no-Ayako (多治比文子) in 942.
Cows are familiars of the god Tenjin (天神). You can find out more about them here
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1351320678759219200?s=20
Ayako Tenman-gū (文子天満宮) is considered to be forerunner of Kitano Tenman-gū. After a ghostly visit, it was founded by Tajihi-no-Ayako (多治比文子) in 942.
17) HORSES (2)
Fujinomori-jinja (藤森神社) enshrines 12 gods in total, & is considered a guardian of horses. People pray for 'luck at winning', including horse-racing.
With a history that may stretch back to 203, the shrine's May 5th festival is celebrated with horse 'stunts'.
Fujinomori-jinja (藤森神社) enshrines 12 gods in total, & is considered a guardian of horses. People pray for 'luck at winning', including horse-racing.
With a history that may stretch back to 203, the shrine's May 5th festival is celebrated with horse 'stunts'.
18) DEER
Takemikazuchi (建御雷), a god of 'thunder and swords', arrived at Mt Mikasa on the back of a white deer in 768. He was enshrined at Kasuga Taisha (春日大社), & the Nara deer remain his sacred messengers.
Ōharano-jinja (大原野神社) in Kyōto is a branch of Kasuga Shrine.
Takemikazuchi (建御雷), a god of 'thunder and swords', arrived at Mt Mikasa on the back of a white deer in 768. He was enshrined at Kasuga Taisha (春日大社), & the Nara deer remain his sacred messengers.
Ōharano-jinja (大原野神社) in Kyōto is a branch of Kasuga Shrine.
19) OXEN (2)
Kitano Tenman-gū (北野天満宮) was founded in 947 to appease the angry spirit of statesman Sugawara-no-Michizane (菅原道真), deified as the god Tenjin (天神). It is said he was born on the hour & day of the ox, in the year of the ox.
Photo - http://www.leafkyoto.net
Kitano Tenman-gū (北野天満宮) was founded in 947 to appease the angry spirit of statesman Sugawara-no-Michizane (菅原道真), deified as the god Tenjin (天神). It is said he was born on the hour & day of the ox, in the year of the ox.
Photo - http://www.leafkyoto.net
20) PIGEONS (2)
Pigeons feature prominently as a motif at Rokkaku-dō (六角堂), but the birds are not technically connected to the Bodhisattva enshrined.
Usually considered a pest, they have lived peacefully here since the temple was founded by Prince Shōtoku (聖徳太子) in 587.
Pigeons feature prominently as a motif at Rokkaku-dō (六角堂), but the birds are not technically connected to the Bodhisattva enshrined.
Usually considered a pest, they have lived peacefully here since the temple was founded by Prince Shōtoku (聖徳太子) in 587.
21) FOXES
Kitsune (狐) are familiars of the 'rice god' Inari Ōkami (稲荷大神), most probably because they hunted pests that invaded rice stores. In folklore these foxes are said to have shapeshifting abilities.
These cute Omukuji can be found at Araki-jinja (荒木神社).
#Japan
Kitsune (狐) are familiars of the 'rice god' Inari Ōkami (稲荷大神), most probably because they hunted pests that invaded rice stores. In folklore these foxes are said to have shapeshifting abilities.
These cute Omukuji can be found at Araki-jinja (荒木神社).
#Japan
22) RABBITS (2)
The name Uji (宇治) was once written with the characters '菟道' ('Rabbit Road'), celebrating the story of a rabbit guiding a lost Uji-no-Wakiiratsuko (菟道稚郎子 d.312) home. The prince's palace later became Ujigami-jinja (宇治上神社).
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1325952776287920128?s=20
The name Uji (宇治) was once written with the characters '菟道' ('Rabbit Road'), celebrating the story of a rabbit guiding a lost Uji-no-Wakiiratsuko (菟道稚郎子 d.312) home. The prince's palace later became Ujigami-jinja (宇治上神社).
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1325952776287920128?s=20
23) DARUMA
Daruma (達磨 'Bodhidharma') was a 5th/6thC monk credited with establishing Zen. After falling asleep during a 9 year meditation he cut off his eyelids & threw them away...they became the first tea plants
Sanbō-ji (三寳寺) is just one temple selling these Omikuji.
Daruma (達磨 'Bodhidharma') was a 5th/6thC monk credited with establishing Zen. After falling asleep during a 9 year meditation he cut off his eyelids & threw them away...they became the first tea plants
Sanbō-ji (三寳寺) is just one temple selling these Omikuji.
24) FOXES (2)
There are around 3000 *registered* shrines dedicated to the god Inari in Japan, so it is little surprise Kitsune Omikuji are popular.
Manzoku Inari-jinja (満足稲荷神社) was founded by Toyotomi Hideyoshi around 1592, & originally protected Fushimi Castle (伏見城).
There are around 3000 *registered* shrines dedicated to the god Inari in Japan, so it is little surprise Kitsune Omikuji are popular.
Manzoku Inari-jinja (満足稲荷神社) was founded by Toyotomi Hideyoshi around 1592, & originally protected Fushimi Castle (伏見城).
25) RABBITS (3)
Uji-jinja's (宇治神社) Omikuji, mirroring the rabbit that helped guide Prince Uji-no-Wakiiratsuko (d.312) home, looks over its shoulder. People pray the rabbit will help keep them on 'the right path'.
Until Meiji times Uji-jinja & Ujigami-jinja were one shrine.
Uji-jinja's (宇治神社) Omikuji, mirroring the rabbit that helped guide Prince Uji-no-Wakiiratsuko (d.312) home, looks over its shoulder. People pray the rabbit will help keep them on 'the right path'.
Until Meiji times Uji-jinja & Ujigami-jinja were one shrine.
26) DAIKOKUTEN
Daikokuten (大黒天) is 1 of the most popular of the '7 Gods of Fortune'. He is god of commerce & prosperity, the patron of cooks, farmers and bankers, and is guardian of crops.
One of the Kyōto's oldest statues of the god is enshrined at Myōen-ji (松ヶ崎大黒天).
Daikokuten (大黒天) is 1 of the most popular of the '7 Gods of Fortune'. He is god of commerce & prosperity, the patron of cooks, farmers and bankers, and is guardian of crops.
One of the Kyōto's oldest statues of the god is enshrined at Myōen-ji (松ヶ崎大黒天).
27) MICE
Ōtoyo-jinja (大豊神社) is nicknamed the 'Mouse Shrine' (鼠の社 'Nezumi-no-sha') after 2 guardian mice 'Koma-nezumi' (狛鼠)...familiars of the god Ōkuninushi (大国主).
It is said that they are modeled on 2 mice that once alerted locals to a fire!
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1199873076902555648?s=20
Ōtoyo-jinja (大豊神社) is nicknamed the 'Mouse Shrine' (鼠の社 'Nezumi-no-sha') after 2 guardian mice 'Koma-nezumi' (狛鼠)...familiars of the god Ōkuninushi (大国主).
It is said that they are modeled on 2 mice that once alerted locals to a fire!
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1199873076902555648?s=20
28) DRAGONS
Rather than foxes, Mt. Inari's Fushimi Kandakara-jinja (伏見神宝神社) celebrates dragons.
The sub-shrine Ryūzu-sha (龍頭社) enshrines a local god that doubled as a deity of cloth & brocade: the name 'Ryūzu' (龍頭) is shared by a metal fixture found on looms.
#Japan
Rather than foxes, Mt. Inari's Fushimi Kandakara-jinja (伏見神宝神社) celebrates dragons.
The sub-shrine Ryūzu-sha (龍頭社) enshrines a local god that doubled as a deity of cloth & brocade: the name 'Ryūzu' (龍頭) is shared by a metal fixture found on looms.
#Japan
29) FROGS
Bishamon-dō Shōrin-ji (毘沙門堂勝林寺) was founded in 1550 by the 205th abbot of Tōfuku-ji, Kōgaku Reishō (高岳令松).
Frog in Japanese is 'Kaeru' (蛙), a homonym for 'Return' (返る). People thus pray for things like a safe journey, the return of fortune and so on.
Bishamon-dō Shōrin-ji (毘沙門堂勝林寺) was founded in 1550 by the 205th abbot of Tōfuku-ji, Kōgaku Reishō (高岳令松).
Frog in Japanese is 'Kaeru' (蛙), a homonym for 'Return' (返る). People thus pray for things like a safe journey, the return of fortune and so on.
30) JIZŌ
Yata-dera (矢田寺).
In 820 Mankei (満慶) was asked to administer the Bodhisattva Precepts to Enma, the King of Hell (閻魔大王). On a tour of the underworld he met Jizō who told him to take soil back home & create a Jizō statue to ease the suffering of those in hell.
Yata-dera (矢田寺).
In 820 Mankei (満慶) was asked to administer the Bodhisattva Precepts to Enma, the King of Hell (閻魔大王). On a tour of the underworld he met Jizō who told him to take soil back home & create a Jizō statue to ease the suffering of those in hell.
31) AMABIE
Amabie has become a potent symbol during the pandemic, a semi-divine creature that offered herself as protection against disease & misfortune.
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1266904520572891137?s=20
I'm not sure how long Kennin-ji's Ryōsoku-in (建仁寺塔頭 両足院) will be selling these Omikuji.
Amabie has become a potent symbol during the pandemic, a semi-divine creature that offered herself as protection against disease & misfortune.
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1266904520572891137?s=20
I'm not sure how long Kennin-ji's Ryōsoku-in (建仁寺塔頭 両足院) will be selling these Omikuji.
32) BENZAITEN
Benzaiten (弁才天) is the goddess of 'everything that flows': water, time, speech, music & knowledge.
Rokuharamitsu-ji's Benten-dō (六波羅蜜寺/弁天堂) was created after Emperor Sutoku (崇徳天皇 1119-64) dreamt the goddess promised to cleanse the world for him.
Benzaiten (弁才天) is the goddess of 'everything that flows': water, time, speech, music & knowledge.
Rokuharamitsu-ji's Benten-dō (六波羅蜜寺/弁天堂) was created after Emperor Sutoku (崇徳天皇 1119-64) dreamt the goddess promised to cleanse the world for him.
33) DRAGONS (2)
Founded in Heian times, Takio-jinja's (瀧尾神社) fortunes changed in 1839 with the patronage of Shimomura Hikoemon (大丸の下村彦右衛門), founder of Daimaru Department Stores. He rebuilt the shrine with elaborate carvings, including the Hall of Worship's dragon.
Founded in Heian times, Takio-jinja's (瀧尾神社) fortunes changed in 1839 with the patronage of Shimomura Hikoemon (大丸の下村彦右衛門), founder of Daimaru Department Stores. He rebuilt the shrine with elaborate carvings, including the Hall of Worship's dragon.
34) PIGEONS (3)
Miyake-Hachiman-gū (三宅八幡宮) has long been famed as a guardian of children (from mysterious creatures believed to cause sickness).
The shrine was founded by Ono-no-Imoko (小野妹子), envoy to the Sui Dynasty, in 607.
Pigeons are familiars of the god Hachiman.
Miyake-Hachiman-gū (三宅八幡宮) has long been famed as a guardian of children (from mysterious creatures believed to cause sickness).
The shrine was founded by Ono-no-Imoko (小野妹子), envoy to the Sui Dynasty, in 607.
Pigeons are familiars of the god Hachiman.
35) YATAGARASU (2)
In 1160 Emperor Go-Shirakawa (後白河天皇) invited the 3 gods of Kumano (熊野権現) to the capital and established Kumano Nyakuōji-jinja (熊野若王子神社).
Japan's first emperor was guided from Kumano to Yamato by a divine, 3-legged crow (八咫烏 'Yatagarasu').
In 1160 Emperor Go-Shirakawa (後白河天皇) invited the 3 gods of Kumano (熊野権現) to the capital and established Kumano Nyakuōji-jinja (熊野若王子神社).
Japan's first emperor was guided from Kumano to Yamato by a divine, 3-legged crow (八咫烏 'Yatagarasu').
36) OXEN (3)
Sugawarain Tenmangū-jinja (菅原院天満宮神社) stands on the site of the old Sugawara family (菅原氏) residence
when the east wind blows,
flourish in full bloom,
you plum blossoms!
even though you lose your master
don't be oblivious to spring.
-Michizane (菅原道真).
Sugawarain Tenmangū-jinja (菅原院天満宮神社) stands on the site of the old Sugawara family (菅原氏) residence
when the east wind blows,
flourish in full bloom,
you plum blossoms!
even though you lose your master
don't be oblivious to spring.
-Michizane (菅原道真).
37) THE KING OF HELL
Rokudō Chinnō-ji's (六道珍皇寺) is home to Enma (閻魔王), King of Hell & judge of the dead.
It is said the poet Ono-no-Takamura (小野篁 802-53) would travel to the underworld at night via a well (now in the temple garden) to act as a lawyer for the dead.
Rokudō Chinnō-ji's (六道珍皇寺) is home to Enma (閻魔王), King of Hell & judge of the dead.
It is said the poet Ono-no-Takamura (小野篁 802-53) would travel to the underworld at night via a well (now in the temple garden) to act as a lawyer for the dead.
38) MANEKI NEKO (2)
Tō-ji (東寺) sells a large selection of Omikuji, but one of the most charming is its cheerful Maneki Neko (招き猫 lit. 'Beckoning Cat').
The temple's pagoda, constructed in 1644, is 54.8m high, making it the tallest wooden tower in Japan.
#Kyoto #Japan
Tō-ji (東寺) sells a large selection of Omikuji, but one of the most charming is its cheerful Maneki Neko (招き猫 lit. 'Beckoning Cat').
The temple's pagoda, constructed in 1644, is 54.8m high, making it the tallest wooden tower in Japan.
#Kyoto #Japan
39) HORSES (3)
Jōnan-gū's (城南宮) Omikuji are emblazoned with an unusual motif representing the sun, moon & star(s).
The 'Sankō-no-mon' (三光の紋), once used as an insignia by Empress Jingū (神功皇后), now symbolizes the divine reach of the shrine (across the universe & time).
Jōnan-gū's (城南宮) Omikuji are emblazoned with an unusual motif representing the sun, moon & star(s).
The 'Sankō-no-mon' (三光の紋), once used as an insignia by Empress Jingū (神功皇后), now symbolizes the divine reach of the shrine (across the universe & time).
40) PEACOCKS
Tanaka-jinja (田中神社), likely older than the city itself, may not be the most famous of shrines, but it has a very unusual Omikuji: an egg containing an origami peacock (孔雀みくじ)!
The head priest cares for a peacock that was rescued from an Ōsaka circus
Tanaka-jinja (田中神社), likely older than the city itself, may not be the most famous of shrines, but it has a very unusual Omikuji: an egg containing an origami peacock (孔雀みくじ)!
The head priest cares for a peacock that was rescued from an Ōsaka circus
41) HIDEYOSHI & NENE
Kōdai-ji (高台寺) was established in 1606 by Nene (ねね/北政所/高台院 d.1624) as a prayer for her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉 d.1598).
The temple has a pair of Omikuji representing these historical figures, together symbolizing bonds of love.
Kōdai-ji (高台寺) was established in 1606 by Nene (ねね/北政所/高台院 d.1624) as a prayer for her late husband, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉 d.1598).
The temple has a pair of Omikuji representing these historical figures, together symbolizing bonds of love.
42) HELL KING & FANS
Senbon Enma-dō (千本ゑんま堂/aka Injō-ji 引接寺) enshrines 'Enma' (閻魔大王). As well as Omikuji depicting the 'King of Hell', there are others in the shape of a fan...a nod to the poet Ono-no-Takamura (小野篁), who first installed a statue of Enma here.
Senbon Enma-dō (千本ゑんま堂/aka Injō-ji 引接寺) enshrines 'Enma' (閻魔大王). As well as Omikuji depicting the 'King of Hell', there are others in the shape of a fan...a nod to the poet Ono-no-Takamura (小野篁), who first installed a statue of Enma here.
43) BIRDS
Awata-jinja's (粟田神社) paper Omikuji, once read, can be folded into charming little birds.
The shrine once overlooked the famous Tōkaidō (東海道), linking Kyōto & Edo (江戸), and acted as the eastern entrance of the capital. This area was known for its swordsmiths.
Awata-jinja's (粟田神社) paper Omikuji, once read, can be folded into charming little birds.
The shrine once overlooked the famous Tōkaidō (東海道), linking Kyōto & Edo (江戸), and acted as the eastern entrance of the capital. This area was known for its swordsmiths.
It is common to leave Omikuji tied to the branches of trees or lengths of string in shrine grounds.
One theory is that this tradition originated from word play.
Matsu '松' (pine tree) is a homonym for '待つ' (wait)...so people tied their fortunes, hoping that bad luck would stay.
One theory is that this tradition originated from word play.
Matsu '松' (pine tree) is a homonym for '待つ' (wait)...so people tied their fortunes, hoping that bad luck would stay.
44) SAKURA
Reaching their peak around April 20th, Ninna-ji's (仁和寺) groves of cherry trees are the last to bloom in Kyōto. Known as Omuro Sakura (御室桜), the temple trees are uniquely stunted, growing to only around 2m tall. They are a variant of Sato-zakura (郷さくら).
Reaching their peak around April 20th, Ninna-ji's (仁和寺) groves of cherry trees are the last to bloom in Kyōto. Known as Omuro Sakura (御室桜), the temple trees are uniquely stunted, growing to only around 2m tall. They are a variant of Sato-zakura (郷さくら).
45) GINKGO
Mikane-jinja (御金神社), the 'Money Shrine', enshrines Kaneyamahiko (金山毘古神), god of mines & minerals, and by extension metal & money!
Founded in 1859, the shrine's Omikuji are in the shape of a ginkgo leaf (the leaves turn gold in autumn, a symbol of wealth).
Mikane-jinja (御金神社), the 'Money Shrine', enshrines Kaneyamahiko (金山毘古神), god of mines & minerals, and by extension metal & money!
Founded in 1859, the shrine's Omikuji are in the shape of a ginkgo leaf (the leaves turn gold in autumn, a symbol of wealth).
46) DOGS
Sanpō-ji (三宝寺) is home to the guardian 'Myōken in the Direction of the Dog' (戌の方の妙見さん).
The temple was founded in 1627 by Nichigo (日護), with the help of imperial princes Imadegawa Tsunesue (今出川経季) & Nakayama Reizei Tamehisa (中山冷泉為尚).
#Japan
Sanpō-ji (三宝寺) is home to the guardian 'Myōken in the Direction of the Dog' (戌の方の妙見さん).
The temple was founded in 1627 by Nichigo (日護), with the help of imperial princes Imadegawa Tsunesue (今出川経季) & Nakayama Reizei Tamehisa (中山冷泉為尚).
#Japan
47) DAIKOKUTEN (2)
Sanpō-ji (三宝寺) also sells a wooden Omikuji in the shape of Daikokuten (大黒天)...god of commerce & prosperity, the patron of cooks & farmers, and the guardian of crops.
The temple's main hall was originally constructed as Emperor Shōwa's enthronement room.
Sanpō-ji (三宝寺) also sells a wooden Omikuji in the shape of Daikokuten (大黒天)...god of commerce & prosperity, the patron of cooks & farmers, and the guardian of crops.
The temple's main hall was originally constructed as Emperor Shōwa's enthronement room.
48) PEACHES
In China peaches were symbols of longevity, & peach wood was used as a charm against evil. The Kojiki & Nihon Shoki both recount a tale in which a peach was used to exorcise a demon.
Nagao Tenmangū (長尾天満宮) sell peach Omikuji, but I struggle to see a connection.
In China peaches were symbols of longevity, & peach wood was used as a charm against evil. The Kojiki & Nihon Shoki both recount a tale in which a peach was used to exorcise a demon.
Nagao Tenmangū (長尾天満宮) sell peach Omikuji, but I struggle to see a connection.
In life Sugawara-no-Michizane (菅原道真 d.903) expressed a desire to be buried on the mountain behind Daigo-ji. As he died in exile, his possessions were sent in his stead & Nagao Tenmangū (長尾天満宮) emerged following his deification (& Emperor Daigo's guilt-filled patronage).
49) HORSES (4)
Close to Emperor Meiji's mausoleum* is Nogi-jinja (乃木神社), enshrining imperial general Count Nogi Maresuke (乃木希典 1849-1912) & his wife Shizuko (静子).
Nogi's family were teachers of Ogasawara-ryū (小笠原流), a martial art that specialised in horsemanship.
Close to Emperor Meiji's mausoleum* is Nogi-jinja (乃木神社), enshrining imperial general Count Nogi Maresuke (乃木希典 1849-1912) & his wife Shizuko (静子).
Nogi's family were teachers of Ogasawara-ryū (小笠原流), a martial art that specialised in horsemanship.
*Following Emperor Meiji's death Count Maresuke (乃木希典) and his wife committed seppuku, reviving the old samurai tradition of 'Junshi' (殉死 'following the lord in death'). Nogi wished to atone for military failures.
In his will he donated his body to medial science.
#Japan
In his will he donated his body to medial science.
#Japan
50) UMBRELLAS
Nagao Tenmangū (長尾天満宮) has a 2nd type of Omikuji, again something apparently unrelated to the shrine...umbrellas (similar to those you sometimes see decorating cocktails).
The umbrella symbolizes the opening up of luck and protection from ill-fortune.
#Kyoto
Nagao Tenmangū (長尾天満宮) has a 2nd type of Omikuji, again something apparently unrelated to the shrine...umbrellas (similar to those you sometimes see decorating cocktails).
The umbrella symbolizes the opening up of luck and protection from ill-fortune.
#Kyoto
51) TIGERS (2)
Matsuno'o Taisha (松尾大社) is home to 'Byakko' (白虎 the 'White Tiger'), 1 of 4 animal guardians (四神 'Shishin'
) that protect Kyōto's cardinal directions. He guards the west.
Here is a short thread about the shrine
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1311463156649082880?s=20
#Japan
Matsuno'o Taisha (松尾大社) is home to 'Byakko' (白虎 the 'White Tiger'), 1 of 4 animal guardians (四神 'Shishin'
) that protect Kyōto's cardinal directions. He guards the west.Here is a short thread about the shrine
https://twitter.com/camelliakyoto/status/1311463156649082880?s=20
#Japan
52) CONCHES
Horagai (法螺貝) are large conch shells carried by Yamabushi (山伏) to announce their presence in the wilderness, and in religious rituals.
Shōgo-in Monzeki (聖護院門跡), founded in 1103 by Zōyo (増誉), is head temple of the Shugendō Honzan sect (本山修験宗).
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Horagai (法螺貝) are large conch shells carried by Yamabushi (山伏) to announce their presence in the wilderness, and in religious rituals.
Shōgo-in Monzeki (聖護院門跡), founded in 1103 by Zōyo (増誉), is head temple of the Shugendō Honzan sect (本山修験宗).
#Japan
