Mizuwakasu Shrine


Mizuwakasu Shrine is a Japanese Shinto shrine located in Okinoshima, Oki District, Shimane Prefecture. It is a Myojin Taisha. It is the Ichinomiya Oki Province or the highest ranked shrine in the province. It is ranked as a Beppyo shrine, or a special shrine by the Association of Shinto Shrines. The crest of the shrine has a chrysanthemum symbol.
It enshrines the deity Mizuwakasu-no-mikoto. This deity is linked to land development in Oki Province and sea protection.

History

According to legend, the deity rose from the sea, off the shore of Igo, crossed Mt. Ōmine and entered the former Goka Village.
The shrine might date back to the Kofun Period. This was during Emperor Suijin or Emperor Nintoku's reign.
In the Engishiki Jinmyocho, it was listed as a Myojin Taisha in 927.
The shrine is important in Oki Province. It guards the Sea of Japan. It appears in the Shoku Nihongi, a historical text. The Inshū Shicho Gakki, from the Edo Period, mentions it. The names it as Mizuwakasu Myojin Oki Ichinomiya Shrine.
The present Honden was made in 1795.
It was damaged during Haibutsu kishaku.

Architecture

The shrine's style is unique. The front is Yuiitsu Shinmei-zukuri, like Ise Grand Shrine. The roof is Taisha-zukuri, like Izumo Grand Shrine. The pent roof is Kasuga-zukuri, like Kasuga Grand Shrine. This mix is called Oki-zukuri.

Cultural Status

The shrine is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.

Festivals

The grand festival is held on May 3 in odd-numbered years.