Okazaki Shrine (Kyoto) – Introducing Goshuin Information, Blessings, and History!

What is Okazaki Shrine？

The formal name of the shrine is Higashi Tenno Okazaki Shrine (東天王岡崎神社), and it is also famous as the “Rabbit Shrine.” Upon entering the shrine grounds, you’ll be greeted by guardian statues of rabbits instead of the usual guardian dogs. Throughout the shrine, you’ll find various items and motifs featuring rabbits!

Blessings and Deities

Okazaki Shrine enshrines **Susanoo no Mikoto**, a deity renowned for warding off misfortune, and his wife, **Kushinadahime no Mikoto**. As a shrine dedicated to a married couple, it is also highly regarded for blessings related to matchmaking and marital harmony. Additionally, the rabbit is known for its high fertility, as it can give birth to around eight offspring at once, making the shrine also known for its benefits related to fertility and having children.

History

Okazaki Shrine has a rich historical background:
・Founded by Emperor Kanmu： In the 13th year of the Enryaku era (794), Emperor Kanmu, during the transfer of the capital from Nagaoka-kyo to Heian-kyo (modern Kyoto), established shrines at the four cardinal points of the new capital for its protection. Okazaki Shrine, located in the east (the direction of the rising sun), was named Higashi Tenno (East Tenno) because of its position.
・Construction by Emperor Seiwa:：In the 11th year of the Jogan era (869), Emperor Seiwa ordered the construction of the shrine building. He invited and enshrined the Gion Kudo Tenno (Susanoo no Mikoto) from Hirohime in Harima Province (now northern Himeji City in Hyogo Prefecture) and prayed for the cessation of epidemics.
・Imperial Favor：In 1178, during the Jisho era, the shrine received offerings from the Empress of Emperor Takakura. The shrine was highly revered by the imperial family and received official blessings throughout various periods. Particularly, Emperor Go-Daigo rebuilt the shrine in 1319 during the Gen’o era, and it was granted the highest rank of Shoki I (First Rank) and sacred treasures.
・Muromachi Period：In 1452, during the Kyotoku era, the shrine was repaired by Ashikaga Yoshimasa, the Shogun, indicating its deep relationship with the Ashikaga shogunate.

Access to Okazaki Shrine

Okazaki Shrine’s Goshuin

Here is the information about Okazaki Shrine’s Goshuin (shrine seal). You can receive various types of Goshuin, including the simple one with a rabbit depicted in the upper left (written on-site) and those with illustrations of rabbits (pre-printed).

The Goshuin books also feature many adorable illustrations of rabbits.

The office where you can receive the Goshuin is located to the right and towards the back after your visit. There are also many amulets and other items available.

Visiting Report on Okazaki Shrine！！

Entering the shrine grounds, let the visit begin! In front of the gate, you’ll find cute lanterns adorned with rabbit patterns…!

And of course, the guardian rabbits!

At Okazaki Shrine, you’ll be greeted by guardian rabbits! One rabbit has its mouth open, while the other has its mouth closed. This pair of guardian rabbits represents the concept of “Aun”—the inhaling and exhaling breath—and serves as a protective charm against evil spirits.

Now, take a look at the round, chubby guardian rabbits…! They are incredibly cute in their own way.

In front of the shrine, there are also guardian rabbits waiting. Having seen three different types of guardian rabbits, each with its own unique character, it’s truly soothing just to look at them all!

The “Childbirth Rabbit

The “Childbirth Rabbit” statue at the temizuya (water ablution pavilion) in Okazaki Shrine is depicted gazing at the moon, symbolizing a rabbit filled with strength. It is said that by pouring water over this statue and gently rubbing its belly while making a prayer, one can be blessed with children and have a smooth childbirth.

Rabbit Ema

At Okazaki Shrine, there are also large ema featuring illustrations of rabbits! These make popular photo spots due to their charming designs.

Summary

Thank you for reading.
Please do visit the charming Okazaki Shrine!