Rokugo shrine

Rokugo shrine (六郷神社) was founded in 1057. It is located not far from today’s Zoshiki or Rokugodote stations of Keikyu line. You will need just few minutes on foot. There is a big tori gate guarded by two lion-dogs, which brings you inside. The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the divine protector of Japan and the deity of war and archery. It used to be popular with warriors and samurai in the Tokaido region in the past centuries.

The main building, Shaden, is a large ornate structure made out of dark wood planks, decorated with gold and paper lanterns. It is composed of :

• Haiden – The place where you offer your prayers. Feel free to bring few coins and make a wish.
• Heiden – It makes connection between Haiden and Honden.
• Honden – The place, where the divinity itself is enshrined.

The shrine is a beautiful example of Heian period architecture with intricately detailed wooden eaves and hints of Buddhist influence. There are also several other buildings such as Kaguraden (stage used for performances during shrine’s festivals), information and smaller shrines. [1][2]

Nanakusa Kodomo Yabusame (七草こども流鏑馬)

It is traditional archery ritual held on 7th of January every year. The archery is performed by small children (between 3 and 12 of age) while sitting on horseback and the event shall bring sound growth and good luck. [3]

Reitaisai

The Reitaisai is the annual grand festival of Rokugo shrine and it is held in early June. On Sunday, there is a procession of mikoshi (portable shrines), which goes through the neighborhood. There are also lion dances performed by children. [4]

Cache

The cache is not hidden in the premises of the shrine itself (see reference point to get to the shrine), but it is located outside.

It is a small lock and lock and there is no pencil nor pen. Please, bring your own pen.

Sources

[1] Rokugo Shrine, JapanTravel, link: [https://en.japantravel.com/tokyo/rokugo-shrine/5329]

[2] Rokugo Shrine, Visiting Japan, link: [http://www.visiting-japan.com/en/articles/tokyo/e13oh-rokugo-jinja.htm]

[3] Nanakusa Kodomo Yabusame at Rokugo shrine, Visiting Japan, link: [http://www.visiting-japan.com/en/articles/events/e13oh-rokugo-jinja-yabusame.htm]

[4] Reitaisai at Rokugo shrine, Visiting Japan, link: [http://www.visiting-japan.com/en/articles/events/e13oh-rokugo-jinja-reitaisai.htm]