Visited in person · Original photography
Origins and founding
Ichinomiya of Sagami Province. It is said to be Japan's only shrine devoted to happo-yoke, protection from misfortune in every direction.
The shinmon gate. Lanterns bear the Imperial chrysanthemum crest.
What to see
The shinmon gate, with a New Year nebuta display / the direction dial / Kanteizan Shinen, a garden said to be open only to those who have worshipped at the shrine.
The entrance to Kanteizan Shinen. Only worshippers may enter the garden.
Cultural context
Happo-yoke is protection from misfortune coming from any direction, including compass direction, land, house orientation and auspicious dates. People visit before building, moving house or travelling. Tradition says the shrine lies on a line where the equinox sunrise passes over Mount Fuji.