Volcanic island protected by the gods - Izu Oshima - ④ Namijikama Shrine

What is Najikama Shrine, deep in Izu Oshima?

Hajikama Shrine, embraced by the rich nature of Izu Oshima, goes beyond the existence of a mere shrine, and is a mysterious space woven together by mythology, history, and nature. As one of the three companies, the former Oshima hometown, it has long been gaining the faith of the island people. Namijikama Shrine is a special place that gives visitors a deep sense of emotion, silence and peace of mind.

The origin of mythology, the story of Mishima Daimyojin and Namiuki-mizu

The origin of Namijikama Shrine is deeply rooted in the creation myth of the Izu Islands. According to the ancient book "Miyakeki," which tells the creation of the Izu Islands, Mishima Daimyojin, which is said to have created the islands, had five queens. Among them, the queen placed on Oshima is the "Habu-hime Mikoto", enshrined as "Habuhime Mikoto", the deity enshrined by Habu-hime Mikoto.

Two princes were born between Namiuki-mi-no-mei and Mishima Daimyojin. His eldest son, Taro Oji Oi-sho, is enshrined as the deity of Omiya Shrine, which is currently enshrined in the Nomasu area, while his second son, Jiro Oji Sukunai-sho, is enshrined as the deity of Namichi Kama Shrine, which is located in the Izumizu area. This story has been going on since the mythology of the time, and gives a sense of the history and culture of Izu Oshima.

Historical significance as a Shikiuchi Shrine "Naji Shrine"

Namichi Kama Shrine is considered to be Namiji Shrine, a "shikinaisha," which was an important position in the ancient shrine system. Shikinai Shrine refers to the Engishiki Shinmeicho, compiled in the mid-Heian period, which is listed in a list of shrines across the country recognized by the government at the time. This indicates that Namijikama Shrine has existed for at least 1,000 years and was recognized by the imperial court as an important shrine.

The fact that it is a Shikinai Shrine does not simply mean that it has a long history, but also suggests the importance of the shrine's history, formality and role in the local community. Namijikama Shrine is an indispensable part of talking about the history and culture of Izu Oshima.

Go deep into Izumizu and go through the cutting and enter the entrance to the sacred realm.

To head to Namijikama Shrine, first head towards the Izumizu area. Speaking of Izumizu, the famous "kitatsushi" is known as its iconic scenery. This cut-through is a path created by carving out layers of volcanic ash, and its unique landscape has captivated many people.

[Photo: Cutting through Izumizu]

After passing through the cutting, Namijikama Shrine is quietly standing there. Its existence is like an entrance to a hidden paradise. As you step out of the hustle and bustle and enter the quiet place, you will feel that time is flowing through it, which is different from everyday life.

A path where spirits live, a carpet of sun and moss through the trees

The moment you pass through the torii gate of Namijikama Shrine and step into the approach, the surrounding atmosphere changes completely. Towering cedar trees cover the head, and the sun filtering through the trees illuminates the ground. Soft moss spreads out like a carpet at your feet, and the soft feel of it soothes the body and mind.

[Photo: Namichi Kama Shrine Torii gate]

The approach is like an entrance to the forest where spirits live. The trees that grow straight give the sense of the vitality that stretches towards the heavens, and the sunshine through the trees glows as if to bless them. The moss carpet quietly carries history and gently welcomes visitors.

[Photo: Approach]

Every time I walk along the approach, I feel like my heart is being washed and my soul is being purified. This is not just a path, but a pathway that leads you to a sacred space.

Hajimeiji: The hall of worship wrapped in silence

The worship hall of Namijikama Shrine is located in a silence deep inside the approach. The quiet appearance gives off a sense of ancient history and makes visitors feel in awe.

[Photo: Houji]

This worship hall enshrines Hajimikoto, the main deity of Namijikama Shrine. As the guardian deity of the Izu Islands, Namiji has continued to watch over the lives of the people on the island.

They quietly clasped their hands in front of the worship hall, offering their gratitude every day, and praying for peace on the island. Such a moment seems to have a special meaning at Namijikama Shrine.

Stone memories, shrines that carve crosses and hidden history

There are several small shrines scattered around the shrine. Among them, the old shrine with a cross engraved on it is particularly eye-catching.

[Photo: An old shrine with a cross engraved on it]

This cross tells the story of the history of Christianity once introduced to Izu Oshima. During the Edo period, Christianity was considered prohibited, and followers continued to protect their faith in secret. This shrine may have been a place for prayers for such hidden Christians.

The shrine, engraved with a cross, tells the depth of the island's history and teaches the importance of freedom of faith.

Connection with the sacred land of Bee, overlooking Mt. Mihara

The location of Namijikama Shrine is not just a coincidence. As an extension of the shrine and the "bee no Shit," a peak of the outer rim of Izu Oshima, you can see Mt. Mihara, an active volcano.

This arrangement suggests that ancient people had a deep awe for nature and worshiped the volcano Miharayama as a sacred being. It is believed that Namijikama Shrine also served as a sacred place for sank Mt. Mihara and praying for peace on the island.

Namijikama Shrine with your five senses: Experience to wash your heart

Namijikama Shrine is a place that stimulates all five senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, and sixth sense.

1. Visually: Lush green forests, moss carpets, old shrine buildings, and sunlight filtering through the trees.
   
2. Hearing: birds chirping, wind, and silence.
   
3. Smell, earthy scent, wood scent, and moss scent.
   
4. Touch, the softness of the moss, the warmth of the wood, and the power of the earth.
   
5. Sixth sense: sacred air, the presence of spirits, and peace of mind.

Combining these elements, Hajikama Shrine offers a special experience that will make visitors feel refreshed.

For visitors: Tips for visiting Namijikama Shrine and information on the surrounding area

Namijikama Shrine is a sacred place. When visiting the shrine, be sure to note the following points:

1. Clothing: Make sure to wear clean and less revealing clothes.
   
2. Attitude: Be worshiped quietly and with respect.
   
3. Do not damage or take back any plants or animals.

In addition, there are many spots around Namijikama Shrine where you can feel the nature and history of Izu Oshima, including the Izumi Kakitami. If you have time, try strolling around the area.

A visit to Namijikama Shrine is a rare opportunity to experience the nature, history and myths of Izu Oshima. Please come and enjoy a refreshing experience to visit this mysterious space.

Shokey Hayashi

Exorcist/Radionics Technique Researcher

Contact

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.