Ikoma Jinja
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
 |
This article does not cite any references or sources. (July 2007) Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unverifiable material may be challenged and removed. |
Ikoma Jinja Shrine (生駒神社, Ikoma-jinja) is a shinto shrine in Ikoma, Nara, JAPAN. The formal name of the shrine is 'Ikomaniimasu-Ikomatsuhiko Jinja'. This shrine is also known as 'Ikoma-Taisha', meaning a 'great shrine of Ikoma'.
Contents |
[edit] 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 long relationship with 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.
[edit] Objects of Worship
Today, this shrine is dedicated to seven gods, Ikomatsu-Hikono-Kami, Ikomatsu-Himeno-Kami, Okinaga-Tarashihimeno-Mikoto, Tarashinakatsu-Hikono-Mikoto, and Katsuragi-Takanukahimeno-Mikoto, Okinaga-Sukuneono-Mikoto. Ikomatsu-Hikono-Kami and Ikomatsu-Himeno-Mikoto are understood as a husband and wife, and as Mount Ikoma itself.
[edit] Cultural Property
This shrine has the 'Ikoma-Mandara', Mandala of Ikoma, and the Madala was selected as a national 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 'Daijosai' ceremony. In October, the shrine has the 'Himatsuri' or the feast of fire.
[edit] Access
The entrance station to the shrine is Ichibu Station of Kintetsu Ikoma Line. About 5 minute walk from the station.
