This shrine is dedicated to Abe-no-Seimei (920 – 1005) who was a great master of “Onmyodo”. Onmyodo is known as a Japanese esoteric cosmology, which is based on Chinese Yin Yang and Wu Xing (Five Elements) principles introduced into Japan in 6th century. It evolved uniquely in Japan and became a practical method of divination in 7th century under control of Imperial Court. As being the master of Onmyodo, Abe-no-Seimei established a method to deal with issues using the principles of Onmyodo. He was also an astrologer, capable of predicting astrological events like what Mayan astrologists did.
Abe-no-Seimei lived so long that he served 6 successive Emperors, contributing to the Imperial Court. In recognition of his contribution, Emperor Ichijo (the last Emperor whom Abe-no-Seimei served) constructed Seimei Jinja Shrine in the ground where the residence of Abe-no-Seimei stood. Originally, the shrine precinct was huge, but some buildings were burnt down during Onin Civil War (1467 – 1477), and the remaining buildings had been abandoned for many years. In 1950, however, the shrine and the precinct were beautifully renovated by the local worshipers of Abe-no-Seimei, as movies and TV dramas began featuring Abe-no-Seimei. Nowadays Abe-no-Seimei is one of the legendary heros among young people.
After reading the history of this shrine, now we know Abe-no-Seimei is a hero who protects Japan. We really admire him. The cache is outside of the shrine. It's accessible at anytime. But it's very worth it to visit inside the shrine. Happy geocaching.
