A spiritual experience of breaking through difficult challenges - Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine - In search of eternal history and faith, the setting of the Kanjincho, and peace of mind

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, quietly located in Ataka-cho, Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, has a long history that has continued since the Nara period, and has attracted the deep faith of people since ancient times as a guardian deity of traffic safety, a guide to the paths of life, a good fortune and bad luck, matchmaking, and above all, the "spirit god of breaking through difficult situations." Over the course of over 1,200 years, the sacred grounds are surrounded by rich nature, and have the power to give visitors peace and hope. In this article, we will explore the profound history of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, its source of faith, its inseparable connection with the kabuki "Kanjincho," and its raison d'être in modern society, and introduce its wide range of charms.

The establishment and transformation of the ancient Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine in the distance

The history of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine dates back to 782 AD and 2nd year of Teno in the Nara period. At the time, Kaga Kuniyasu-taku was famous as an important transportation hub in the Hokuriku region. Since its founding, the shrine has worshipped the three gods of Sumiyoshi (Soko Tsutsuo Michi, Naka Tsutsuo Michi, and Omotsuo Michi) as its main deities, and has played a role as a place to pray for the safety of voyages, the prosperity of the region, and the happiness of people. The three Sumiyoshi gods are gods who control the sea, and their names are also written in the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, and for ancient people, the sea was both a blessing and an object of fear. Therefore, praying for the safety of voyages was extremely important in supporting our lives.

After the period began to fall, the Heian and Kamakura periods passed, and during the Muromachi period, it also gained reverence from the samurai class. During the Warring States period, people were sometimes caught up in war, but each time they were rebuilt by local people, and continued to protect the light of faith. As the Edo period began, Ataka became a huge destination for Kitamae-fune calls, and with economic prosperity, Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine became increasingly important. Many merchants and sailors visited to pray for the safety of voyages and the prosperity of business, and shrines began to play a central role in the local community.

As the Meiji period began, when the Order of Separation of Shinto and Buddhism was issued, Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine was also greatly influenced. However, thanks to the enthusiastic efforts of local people, the shrine has survived and continues to preserve its history and traditions to this day.

Enshrined deities and benefits, a wide range of divine virtues and prayers for breaking through difficult situations

Sumiyoshi Sanjin, the main deity of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, has been deeply connected to people's lives since ancient times as a god of sea and a god of voyage. They are believed to not only ensure safety on voyages, but also provide a wide range of benefits, including a wealth of fishing, prosperity in business, and safety in the home.

Furthermore, Betsu Raijin and Suikona no Mikoto are also enshrined as the gods of the temple at Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine. The Betsu Thunder God is the god who controls thunder and is worshiped as the god who wards evil, harvests, and fires. On the other hand, Suohikona no Mikoto is known as the god of wisdom and the god of medicine, and is said to benefit from healing illness, achieving academic success, and prospering business.

In particular, the reason why Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine became widely known as the "spirit god of breaking through difficult challenges" is deeply connected to the historical event that it became the setting for the kabuki "Kanjincho." When Minamoto Yoshitsune and his group passed through Ataka's Seki, Benkei took full advantage of their intelligence to escape from the troubles, and it became believed that it would give people courage and hope and give them the strength to overcome their difficulties.

In modern society, people face a variety of challenges, such as exams, employment, promotions, and business success, visit Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine and pray for the blessing of God. They seek God's help and believe in their potential in order to overcome difficulties and achieve their goals.

A mysterious space created by the sound of the pine tree and harmony with nature

The grounds of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine are surrounded by lush pine forests, and its silence gives visitors peace of mind. As you pass through the torii gate and continue along the approach, the wind sways the pine branches, making a unique sound. This sound is called "Shorai", and has been loved by people since ancient times as a mysterious tone created by nature.

The sound of pine trees is not just a sound of nature, but is said to have the effect of enhancing the sacred atmosphere of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, calming the minds of visitors, and concentrating the spirit. As I listen carefully to the sounds of the pine trees, I feel a strange feeling, as if I had wandered into another world.

In the world of tea ceremony, the sound of the pine tree is likened to the sound of the teapot boiling water, and the importance of feeling the sound of nature in the silence. At Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, you can calm your mind and face yourself while listening to the sound of the pine trees.

The setting of Kanjincho, where history and culture liven up

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is widely known as the setting for the kabuki "Kanjincho." "Kanjincho" is a story about the events that took place in Ataka Seki in Kaga Province when Minamoto Yoshitsune and his group, who incited Minamoto Yoritomo's anger, fled through Hokuriku to Hiraizumi, Oshu.

Sekimon Togashi Saemon suspects Yoshitsune and his group are suspicious and tries to block them from passing. However, Benkei pretends to read out the Kanjincho (a document that is read out when seeking donations to build or repair temples and shrines), but uses his tactics to deceive Togashi and succeed in making Yoshitsune and his group pass safely.

This story depicts Benkei's wisdom and loyalty, and Yoshitsune's path to hardships, capturing the hearts of many people. At Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, bronze statues of Benkei, Minamoto Yoshitsune, and Togashi Saemon, who appear in the Kanjincho, are installed, allowing you to feel the world of the story in a familiar atmosphere. In addition, the "Benkei Power Stone," which Benkei said to have lifted up as a test of his strength, remains in the temple grounds, allowing you to reflect on the story.

As the setting for the Kanjincho, Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is a place where history and culture liven up, and it brings excitement and excitement to visitors.

Learn about the Sekitetsu of Ataka and the Kanjincho Story Museum and experience the history and stories

After passing through the grounds of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, you will see the remains of Ataka's Seki. This is the place that Yoshitsune and his group once passed by, and is a place of historical significance. The Sekinese statues of Benkei, Minamoto Yoshitsune and Togashi Saemon are installed, making it a popular spot to photograph.

Behind the Sekine, there is a rest area with a panoramic view of the Sea of ​​Japan, and a museum called Kanjincho Monogatarikan. At Kanjincho Monogatarikan, you can learn more about the story of Kanjincho and the history of Ataka no Seki. Among the exhibits are Kanjincho scripts, costumes, and materials related to kabuki, which allow you to get a feel for traditional Japanese culture.

Kanjincho Monogatarikan is a valuable place for learning history and experiencing stories, and it is a must-see for those visiting Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine.

The role of Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine in modern times and its existence as a place of mind

Modern society is a stressful and highly competitive society. Many people are exhausted in their daily lives and are looking for peace of mind. Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is a place of heart for such modern people.

Surrounded by beautiful nature, the grounds provide peace to visitors and give them time to face themselves in silence. Prayer to God also gives people courage and hope and gives them the strength to overcome difficulties.

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is not just a religious facility, but also plays a role as a cultural center of the local community. Various festivals and events are held throughout the year, making it a place for local people to gather and interact with each other.

Recommendations for prayer, prayers for breaking through difficult situations and peace of mind

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is a god of breaking through difficult situations and is gaining faith from many people. If you are facing various challenges in your life, such as exams, employment, promotions, or successful business, why not visit Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine and pray for the blessing of God?

When visiting the shrine, first purify your mind and body at the Temizuya shrine, then proceed to the main shrine, and pray in front of the shrine using the etiquette of two prayers, two applauses and one prayer. He then expresses his gratitude on a daily basis and asks God for help in the difficulties he is about to overcome.

It is also recommended to stroll around the temple grounds, listen to the sounds of the pine trees, and feel the energy of nature. Visiting Ataka's Seki-reki and Kanjincho-korokan and experiencing history and culture is also important in deepening the richness of the mind.

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is a special place for those who not only pray for breaking through difficult situations, but also seek peace of mind. Why not spend a quiet time and soothe your heart in the grounds surrounded by beautiful nature? There will surely be new discoveries and excitement.

Access information: Access from Komatsu Airport

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is located just a five-minute drive from Komatsu Airport, the gateway to Ishikawa Prefecture's sky. Komatsu Airport is located 30km southwest of Kanazawa City, and regular flights are available to major domestic cities such as Tokyo, Osaka and Fukuoka.

Access to Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine from Komatsu Airport is very convenient, and you can arrive in a short time by renting a car or a taxi. In addition, buses run from Komatsu Airport to Komatsu Station, and taxis can also be taken from Komatsu Station.

Summary: An attractive space woven together by history, culture and faith

Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is an extremely attractive shrine that combines eternal history, rich nature, and the romance of the setting of the kabuki "Kanjincho." As a god of breaking through difficult times, it is a special place for those who gather faith from many people, but also seek peace of mind.

When visiting Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, why not visit Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, experience its history and culture, and pray for the blessing of God? You will surely gain the courage and strength to overcome difficulties and take a new step.

And if you listen carefully to the sound of the pine trees, you will be able to experience an unforgettable experience that will wash your heart. Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is a special place that gently welcomes visitors and gives them healing and hope.

Shokey Hayashi

Exorcist/Radionics Technique Researcher

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Born in Aomori Prefecture in 1965, he has been suffering from troubles, illnesses and injuries caused by spiritual phenomena since childhood. However, one day, when he was 20 years old, he attended an event, had a mysterious experience at the venue, and was hit by lightning energy from the heavens, as if piercing the spinal cord from his brain, and his psychic abilities blossomed. He then began studying psychology and psychiatry, and now he has combined psychiatry and consciousness engineering. Established "Radionics exorcism" using our own radionics techniques. "It's possible to treat your fortune" beyond exorcism, memorial service, and healing.