Subsidiary and Auxiliary Shrines of Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine

There are several small shrines located behind the main shrine of Iwashimizu Hachimangu, some of which are nationally designated Important Cultural Properties. Large shrines usually have multiple minor shrines on their grounds, often dedicated to deities related in some way to the principal deity of the main shrine. This allows worshippers to pray for many things in one place.

Two of the most important auxiliary shrines of Iwashimizu Hachimangu are Wakamiyasha and Wakamiyadensha, a pair of wooden shrines surrounded by a lattice fence in the northeast corner of the main shrine area. People who take part in rituals at the main shrine receive symbolic prayer garments called kiyome no koromo (“garment of purification”). After the service, they write their prayers on these garments and hang them on the fence of Wakamiyasha or Wakamiyadensha. Men pray at Wakamiyasha, which enshrines Emperor Nintoku, the son of Emperor Ojin deified in the main sanctuary. Women pray at Wakamiyadensha, which enshrines Emperor Nintoku’s sisters, who were imperial princesses.

The other small shrines behind the main shrine are dedicated to various deities associated with good relationships, certain victory, plentiful rainfall, safe sea crossing, good harvest, bountiful catches of fish, traffic safety, good health, and business prosperity.