Deities Enshrined at Nukisaki Shrine
The principal deities of Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine are Futsunushi-no-Kami and Hime-no-Ōkami.
Futsunushi-no-Kami
Futsunushi-no-Kami is a deity traditionally associated with the pacification of Ashihara no Nakatsukuni, the ancient name for Japan. At Nukisaki Shrine, he is also introduced as an ancestral deity of the Mononobe clan.
Hime-no-Ōkami
The precise identity of Hime-no-Ōkami is uncertain. One tradition associates her with the deity of sericulture and weaving worshipped in the local area, historically known as Ayame-no-shō.
The historical work Ichinomiya Junreiki records the principal deity as Wakahirume-no-Mikoto, with Futsunushi-no-Mikoto enshrined alongside her, indicating a tradition in which the principal deity was regarded as a goddess.
Origins of the Shrine
According to shrine tradition, Nukisaki Shrine was founded during the reign of Emperor Ankan in the first half of the sixth century. It is said to have begun when the Isobe clan, who bore the Mononobe surname, enshrined their ancestral deity, Futsunushi-no-Kami.
The shrine was later moved to its present location. Its tradition of worship has continued for many centuries, connecting the religious practices of ancient Japan with those of the present day.
One of Japan’s Rare “Descending Shrine” Designs
One of the most remarkable features of Nukisaki Shrine is its unusual approach to the main sanctuary. At many Japanese shrines, visitors climb a path toward a shrine building situated on higher ground. At Nukisaki Shrine, however, visitors first climb the stone steps leading to the main gate, then descend another flight of steps toward the shrine buildings.
This unusual arrangement is known as a “Sagarimiya,” or descending shrine, and is considered a rare architectural and spatial form in Japan.
The layout is closely related to the geography of the shrine, which is situated in the valley known as Ayame-dani. After ascending to a higher point, worshippers descend toward the sacred precincts, creating a distinctive transition from the everyday world into the spiritual realm.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Magnificent Shrine Buildings Commissioned by the Tokugawa Shogunate
The present main sanctuary, worship hall, and two-story gate were constructed in 1635 under the orders of Tokugawa Iemitsu, the third shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate.
During the Genroku era, extensive repairs were carried out under Tokugawa Tsunayoshi. The buildings were given richly colored lacquer decoration, creating the splendid appearance that can still be admired today.
The main sanctuary is built in a distinctive architectural style known as Nukisaki-zukuri. It is a two-story structure with a single main level externally, and a sacred area is located on the upper level inside. Another unusual feature is the “Raijin small window”, which faces Mount Inashimo.
The shrine buildings are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan, reflecting their exceptional historical and architectural value.
Important Cultural Property Buildings
The shrine buildings restored and embellished during the Edo period under the Tokugawa family are notable for their elaborate polychrome lacquerwork. Three principal structures are designated as national Important Cultural Properties.
Main Sanctuary: The main sanctuary is a distinctive two-story structure known as Nukisaki-zukuri. Its interior incorporates a two-level arrangement, with the unusual “Raijin small window” facing Mount Inashimo.
Worship Hall: Built during the early Edo period, the worship hall features an irimoya-style roof and a decorative karahafu gable above its front entrance.
Two-Story Gate: The Rōmon Gate is a single-bay, single-entrance two-story gate distinguished by its copper-sheet roof.
Ancient Trees and Natural Monuments
The shrine grounds contain several remarkable trees that have become part of its cultural and spiritual heritage.
Tōta Cedar
Tōta Cedar is a huge cedar tree behind the main sanctuary, believed to be approximately 1,200 years old. According to tradition, the warrior Fujiwara no Hidesato dedicated the tree while praying for victory during the campaign against Taira no Masakado.
Kaeru-no-ki, the “Frog Tree”
Near the east side of the main gate stands a large Japanese bay tree known as Kaeru-no-ki, or the “Frog Tree.” Near the end of World War II, a bracket fungus resembling a frog appeared on the tree, leading people to associate it with the expression “kachi-kaeru,” or “return victorious.”
Today, the tree is also associated with the idea of “buji kaeru,” meaning “return safely.” It has consequently become a symbol of safe travel and protection.
Sudajii Evergreen Oak
The shrine grounds are also home to a Sudajii evergreen oak estimated to be approximately 1,000 years old. It is designated as a natural monument by Tomioka City.
Auxiliary and Branch Shrines
Setsusha: Nukiboko Wakamiko Shrine
Nukiboko Wakamiko Shrine is a subordinate shrine of Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine and enshrines a divine child associated with the principal deities of the main shrine.
It originally stood in the Wakamiyama area of Ichinomiya before being moved to its present location in 1905. Its shrine building was constructed in 1812.
Massha: Tsukiyomi Shrine
Tsukiyomi Shrine enshrines Tsukiyomi-no-Mikoto and 17 other deities. It stands beside the stone steps leading to the two-story gate.
The building itself is believed to be the former worship hall of the main shrine from before 1635. Four nearby shrines were combined with it in 1908.
Hie Shrine
Hie Shrine enshrines Ōyamatsumi-no-Kami and 17 other deities and stands beside the grounds of the temporary sanctuary.
The shrine building is traditionally believed to be the former main sanctuary of Nukisaki Shrine from before 1635.
Ise Inner and Outer Shrines
The Ise Inner Shrine enshrines Amaterasu Ōmikami, while the Ise Outer Shrine enshrines Toyouke Ōmikami. Both stand beside the grounds of the temporary sanctuary.
Shrines Outside the Main Precincts
Aramune Shrine
Aramune Shrine has a village shrine in Minaminomaki, Shimonita Town, and an inner shrine at the summit of Mount Aramune. Its principal deity is Futsunushi-no-Mikoto.
Inashimo Shrine
Inashimo Shrine has a village shrine in Akinata, Kanra Town, and an inner shrine at the summit of Mount Inashimo. Parishioners of Nukisaki Shrine participate in important ceremonies held at the shrine.
Kobune Shrine
Kobune Shrine is located in Tomioka City. It once stood farther to the north and enshrines Futsunushi-no-Mikoto.
Sakumae Shrine
Sakumae Shrine stands in Saginomiya, Annaka City, and is traditionally regarded as the former shrine, or front shrine, of Nukisaki Shrine. Its principal deity is Takefutsunushi-no-Mikoto, together with other deities that were later enshrined there.
From Ancient Times to the Medieval Period: Warrior Patronage and the Status of Ichinomiya
The shrine appears repeatedly in the Rikkokushi, a collection of Japan’s official historical chronicles, under names including Nukiboko Shrine and Nukisaki Shrine. Its divine rank eventually rose to Shō-ichi-i, the highest rank.
By the Heian period, the shrine is believed to have already established its role as the Ichinomiya of Kozuke Province, the highest-ranking shrine in the province.
During the medieval period, the shrine received strong patronage from warrior families, including Minamoto no Yoshiie and his father Minamoto no Yoshiie. During the Sengoku period, powerful clans such as the Uesugi, Hōjō, and Takeda provided protection and support.
During the Edo period, the Tokugawa family protected the shrine, and its magnificent buildings were constructed and maintained. This long history demonstrates the important spiritual role that Nukisaki Shrine has played in the local community.
Nature and Faith Among the Ancient Trees
The shrine grounds are filled with ancient trees and natural monuments. Among them, the 1,200-year-old Tōta Cedar is particularly impressive. According to tradition, it was connected with prayers for victory and has stood silently as a witness to centuries of history.
The “Frog Tree” is another distinctive feature. During wartime it became associated with the wish for victory and safe return. Today, it is regarded as a symbol of safe travel and returning home safely.
Other old trees, including the Sudajii evergreen oak and ginkgo trees, provide different scenery throughout the seasons and add to the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine.
Traditional Festivals and Shinto Rituals
Approximately 71 religious ceremonies and festivals are held at Nukisaki Shrine each year. Among the most important is the Shikinen Sengū, a ceremonial transfer of the shrine that takes place once every 12 years. During this ritual, the deity is temporarily moved to another sanctuary before being solemnly returned to the main sanctuary.
Shikaura Divination Ritual
One of the shrine’s most distinctive traditions is the Shikaura divination ritual. This ancient form of divination involves burning a deer scapula according to a prescribed ritual and interpreting the cracks that appear to determine auspicious or inauspicious signs.
The custom is designated as a Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan and an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Gunma Prefecture. Today, this particular tradition is said to survive at only two locations in Japan: Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine and Musashi Mitake Shrine.
The shrine also holds a variety of other ceremonies throughout the year, including Daidai Kagura sacred dances, the Godo-biraki Festival, and the Ikuyumiya Ritual, continuing traditions closely connected with the faith of the local community.
Annual Festivals and Rituals
Monthly Festival: 1st day of every month
New Year Festival: January 1
Gen-shi Festival: January 3
Mizumatoi Ritual: January 3
Ikuyumiya and Ikutachi Ritual (Demon-Quelling Ceremony): January 7
Toshigayu Divination Ritual: January 15
Agricultural Opening Festival: February 17
Spring Goto-biraki Festival: March 14
Annual Grand Festival: March 15
Great Purification Ceremony: June 30
New Harvest Thanksgiving Festival: November 23
Sake Brewing Ritual: December 1
Kawase Ritual: December 8
Shikaura Divination Ritual: December 8
Weaving Ritual: December 11
Winter Goto-biraki Festival: December 12
Great Purification Ceremony: December 31
New Year’s Eve Festival: December 31
Cultural Properties
Nationally Designated Important Cultural Properties
Three Buildings of Nukisaki Shrine: The main sanctuary, worship hall, and two-story gate are designated as Important Cultural Properties. The main sanctuary was designated in 1912, while the worship hall and two-story gate were designated in 1976.
Hakudō Getsukyūkan: This Chinese Tang dynasty mirror is preserved in the shrine’s treasure hall.
Two Bronze Mirrors: These include mirrors decorated with plum and sparrow motifs and bamboo and tiger motifs, both dating from the Kamakura period and preserved in the treasure hall.
Selected Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan
The Shikaura divination tradition of Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine is an ancient form of divination in which a deer scapula is burned according to a prescribed ritual and the resulting cracks are interpreted as signs of future fortune.
The survival of this rare ritual tradition provides a valuable glimpse into ancient Japanese religious practices.
Gunma Prefecture Designated Cultural Properties
Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property: The Shikaura divination tradition of Nukisaki Shrine, designated in 1981.
Natural Monument: The Sudajii evergreen oak of Nukisaki Shrine, designated in 2022.
Tomioka City Designated Cultural Properties
Mirrors Dedicated to Nukisaki Shrine: Designated in 1997.
Copper-alloy Lantern of Nukisaki Shrine: Designated in 1997.
Why Visit Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine?
After worshipping at the shrine, visitors can explore the adjoining treasure hall, where important cultural properties and valuable historical objects are displayed.
The surrounding area is also ideal for historical walks. Nearby attractions include Komyōin, the former Buddhist temple associated with the shrine, and the Ichinomiya Kofun Burial Mounds.
Tomioka Silk Mill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also within easy driving distance. Visiting both sites provides a deeper understanding of the history and culture of Tomioka, from ancient religious traditions to Japan’s industrial modernization.
The shrine is attractive throughout the year. Cherry blossoms in spring, fresh green foliage in summer, autumn leaves, and the clear winter air each create a different atmosphere, making every season a rewarding time to visit.
Access
Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine is located at 1535 Ichinomiya, Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture.
It is approximately a 15-minute walk from Joshu-Ichinomiya Station on the Joshin Electric Railway. By car, the shrine is approximately 20 minutes from either the Tomioka Interchange or Shimonita Interchange on the Joshin-Etsu Expressway. Parking facilities are available near the shrine.
A Journey Through More Than a Thousand Years of History
Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine is a special place where visitors can experience a tradition of faith that has continued from ancient times into the present day.
Its unusual descending shrine layout, magnificent Edo-period architecture, ancient trees, and distinctive traditional rituals all contribute to its unique character.
As the Ichinomiya of former Kozuke Province, Nukisaki Shrine has preserved a proud religious and cultural tradition for more than a millennium. A visit offers an opportunity to experience not only Japanese history and architecture, but also the enduring culture of prayer and worship.
When traveling through Gunma Prefecture, take time to visit this historic shrine and enjoy a peaceful journey through its ancient forest, beautiful buildings, and centuries-old traditions.