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Kanasana Shrine

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Kanasana Shrine
Glossary of Shinto

Kanasana Shrine (Kanasana Jinja, 金鑚神社) is a Shinto shrine located in Kodama County, Saitama Prefecture[1].[2][3] It worships Amaterasu alongside Susanoo-no-Mikoto and is a Kanpei-chūsha. [3]It is a Ninomiya, or a second rank shrine in its province after the Ichinomiya, and is commonly called "Ninomiya-sama"[2]. It is one of the most prestigious shrines in all of Saitama Prefecture.[4]

It is said to have been founded when Yamato Takeru hid the tools of fire in Mount Ōmuro.[4]

It's hosts a festival every November 23rd called firestone festival (火金鑚祭, Hikiri Shinji)[2] ja:金鑚神社 simple:Kanasana Shrine

Overview[edit]

Kanasana Shrine can be found in Kamikawa, in the northwest of Saitama Prefecture, resting at an elevation of 343 meters at the base of Mount Mitake. Overlooking the Kannagawa river, which demarcates the border between Saitama and Gunma prefectures, it's a site of historical significance. Following his achievements in the eastern regions, the legendary Yamato Takeru is believed to have placed a hikirigane (a metal used for kindling fire) here as a tribute to the revered deities, Susanoo and Amaterasu.[5]

Etymology[edit]

Deriving its name from the term "iron sand," Kanasana alludes to the superior quality iron sand from the Kannagawa river, integral for crafting swords. Myths envelop Mount Mitake, with tales suggesting the presence of both iron and copper. Recent archaeological ventures hint at the area's habitation dating back 15,000 to 20,000 years, possibly by communities mining the mountain's rich metal deposits. Such historical underpinnings might have birthed the legend of Yamato Takeru, further solidifying Mount Mitake's sanctity.[5]


Architecture[edit]

It omits a Honden as the mountain behind it is its Shintai.[2]

It has a large sacred shinboku camphor tree which is listed as a national treasure.[6]

The Shrine uses a Kannabi instead of a Honden.[4] [2]

It is one of only three major shrines that continue the practice of direct Mountain Worship via Kannabi alongside Ōmiwa Shrine and Suwa-taisha.[7] [5]

In this case the Kannabi is Mimurogatake, a visible peak of Mount Mitake from the shrine's worship hall.[5]

Tahōtō[edit]

A pagoda called tahōtō from 1534 and is an important cultural property is on the shrine.[5]

Mitake no Kagami Iwa[edit]

A short trek up Mount Mitake reveals the Mitake no kagami iwa. This expansive slickenslide, a smooth rock surface spanning 9 meters with a 4-meter height, showcases a mirrored finish. Scientists attribute its sheen to the intense friction resulting from the Hachiōji tectonic line's emergence around 100 million years ago. Recognized for its geological significance, this rock was designated a national special natural monument in 1956.[5]

View[edit]

From the observatory atop Mimurogatake, visitors can indulge in a breathtaking panorama encompassing Mount Akagi and Mount Haruna in adjacent Gunma Prefecture. Additionally, the scenic tapestry of the Kannagawa and Tamagawa rivers meandering into the Kantō plain below enhances the visual treat.[5]

References[edit]

  1. "Keeping Ancient Mountain Worship Alive at Saitama's Kanasana Shrine". nippon.com. 2018-07-08. Retrieved 2023-10-25.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "Glossary of Shinto Names and Terms: K". www2.kokugakuin.ac.jp. Retrieved 2023-04-06.
  3. 3.0 3.1 Ponsonby-Fane, R. A. B. (2016-05-11). Studies In Shinto & Shrines (1st ed.). Routledge. p. 383. ISBN 978-1-138-98322-9. Search this book on
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 "Kanasana Shrine|CHOCOTABI SAITAMA". CHOCOTABI SAITAMA (in 日本語). Retrieved 2023-10-01.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 "Keeping Ancient Mountain Worship Alive at Saitama's Kanasana Shrine". nippon.com. 2018-07-08. Retrieved 2023-10-18.
  6. "Kanasana-jinja | Honjo Sightseeing Association". en.honjo-kanko.jp. Retrieved 2023-04-06.
  7. Cali, Joseph; Dougill, John (2012). Shinto Shrines: A Guide to the Sacred Sites of Japan's Ancient Religion. Honolulu: University of Hawai'i Press. p. 195. ISBN 978-0-8248-3775-4. Search this book on


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