Mizuwakasu Shrine
Mizuwakasu Shrine (水若酢神社, Mizuwakasu-jinja) 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.[1] 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.[2] It enshrines the deity Mizuwakasu-no-mikoto. This deity is linked to land development in Oki Province and sea protection.[1][3] HistoryAccording to legend, the deity rose from the sea, off the shore of Igo, crossed Mt. Ōmine and entered the former Goka Village.[1] The shrine might date back to the Kofun Period. This was during Emperor Suijin or Emperor Nintoku's reign.[1] In the Engishiki Jinmyocho, it was listed as a Myojin Taisha in 927.[4][1] 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 Owari Kokunai Jinmyōchō names it as Mizuwakasu Myojin Oki Ichinomiya Shrine.[1] The present Honden was made in 1795.[2] It was damaged during Haibutsu kishaku.[5] ArchitectureThe 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.[1]
Cultural StatusThe shrine is designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government.[1] FestivalsThe grand festival is held on May 3 in odd-numbered years.[1] See alsoReferences
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