Ikoma Shrine


Ikoma Jinja is a Shinto shrine in Ikoma, Nara, Japan. Generally called Ikoma Taisha. The formal name of the shrine is "'''Ikomaniimasu-Ikomatsuhiko Jinja". This shrine is also known as "Ikoma-Taisha", which means "great shrine of Ikoma".

History

According to the Sokoku-Fudoki, an ancient record of Japan, this shrine was extant in 458. The original object of worship at the shrine was a mountain, Mount Ikoma, behind the shrine. This shrine has a long relationship with the Japanese royal family and the dynasty. In Engishiki, a formal record on shrines written in 972, this shrine was given the title of "Kanpei-dai" as very high rank among Japanese shrines.

Patron deities

Today, this shrine is dedicated to seven gods, Ikomatsu-Hikono-Kami, Ikomatsu-Himeno-Kami, Okinaga-Tarashihimeno-Mikoto, Tarashinakatsu-Hikono-Mikoto, Hondawakeno-Mikoto, and Katsuragi-Takanukahimeno-Mikoto, Okinaga-Sukuneono-Mikoto. Ikomatsu-Hikono-Kami and Ikomatsu-Himeno-Mikoto are understood to be husband and wife, and are embodied by Mount Ikoma itself.

Cultural Property

This shrine has the Ikoma-Mandara, or "Mandala of Ikoma", and the Mandala was selected as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.
This shrine is also well known as a shrine of fire, and the Japanese royal family use the Shinboku or sacred woods of the shrine, as firewood at the Daijosai ceremony. In October, the shrine has the Hi-matsuri or the "festival of fire".

Access

The entrance station to the shrine is Ichibu Station of Kintetsu Ikoma Line. About 5 minute walk from the station.

Gallery