Okunitama Shrine
The guardian of Musashi Province, famous for the misty Darkness Festival.
Located in Fuchu, the ancient capital of Musashi Province, this shrine combines the spirits of six major local shrines. It is famous for the mystifying 'Kurayami Matsuri'.
History of the Shrine
Established in 111 AD, Okunitama Shrine served as the 'Soja' (Total Shrine) of Musashi Province. In ancient Japan, provincial governors would visit the Soja to worship all the important local gods at once. Thus, Okunitama Shrine effectively houses the deities of six major shrines in the region (including Hikawa Shrine and Chichibu Shrine), making it a convenient 'one-stop' power spot.
It has been protected by powerful samurai leaders throughout history, including Minamoto no Yoriyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, due to its strategic location in the provincial capital.
The Enshrined Kami
What to See
The approach is lined with ancient Zelkova trees, designated as a National Natural Monument. The main gate is massive, and the shrine grounds are spacious and welcoming. A unique feature is the 1,000-year-old Gingko tree behind the main hall, believed to aid in safe childbirth and recovery from illness.
Major Festivals
The 'Kurayami Matsuri' (Darkness Festival) in early May is one of the most unusual and exciting festivals in the Kanto region. Historically, the sacred portable shrines were carried only in total darkness to avoid the gaze of commoners. Today, while streetlights exist, the festival retains its mysterious, intense atmosphere as massive drums and mikoshi parade through the night.
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