穂高神社
Located in Hotaka (穗髙), Azumino City, considered the heart of Shinshu (信州)region, this Shinto shrine honors Hotakami no Mikoto (穂高見命) as its main deity.
Beyond the main shrine (本宮 or 里宮) in Hotaka, there’s an inner shrine (奥宮) in Kamikochi, Azumi, Matsumoto City, and a mountain shrine (嶺宮) atop Okuhotakadake (奥穂高岳). This collective presence has earned Hotaka Shrine the moniker “general guardian deity of the Japanese Alps.” Notably, the annual Mifune Matsuri festival （御船祭）takes place here on September 27th each year.
 |
| As a sign of respect, a woman bowed to the deity upon entering the gate from the left side |
鳥居 (Torii Gate)
The torii gate marks the entrance to a sacred space in Shinto religion. Bowing shows respect as you transition from the everyday world into the realm of the divine. It’s customary to bow once and take your first step through the gate with your left foot. The center path is reserved for the kami, so it’s polite to walk to the side. When leaving, you can bow again as you pass back through the torii gate.
The Hodaka Shrine Wind Chime Festival (YouTube link)
A Spiritual Interlude in Azumino: Visiting Hotaka Shrine
On a beautiful April day, I explored Daio Wasabi Farm in Azumino, Japan. Founded in 1915, this scenic wasabi farm features water channels, charming windmills, and a tempting cafe. My journey began at Hokata Station, and along the way, I discovered the intriguing Hotaka Shrine. Nestled among fragrant cedar and pine trees, the shrine provided a tranquil moment before the lively atmosphere of the farm.
Hokata Shrine: Guardian of the Japanese Alps (YouTube link)
No comments:
Post a Comment