2025.04.13

Spiritual experience of breaking through difficult barriers ~ Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine

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Tucked away in the town of Ataka in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine has a long history that has continued continuously since the Nara period, and has attracted the deep faith of people since ancient times as the guardian god of traffic safety, the god of guiding the way in life, the god of good luck and evil, the god of marriage, and above all, the "spirit god of breaking through difficult obstacles." More than 1,200 years later, the sacred precincts, surrounded by abundant nature, have the power to give peace of mind and hope to visitors. In this article, we will delve into the profound history of the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine, the source of its faith, its inseparable connection with the kabuki "Sōjin-sho," and its significance in modern society, and introduce its wide-ranging appeal.

Article Contents

Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine, eternal history and faith, the stage of the solicitation book, and in search of peace of mind
- The Founding and Transition of the Distant Ancient Sumiyoshi Shrine

Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine, eternal history and faith, the stage of the solicitation book, and in search of peace of mind

The Founding and Transition of the Distant Ancient Sumiyoshi Shrine

The history of the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine dates back to 782 AD, the 2nd year of Tenō in the Nara period. At that time, this place, Kaga Kuniyasu, was famous as an important transportation hub in the Hokuriku region. Since its founding, the shrine has enshrined the three gods of Sumiyoshi (Bottom Tube Man, Middle Tube Man, and Omotsutsu Man) as the main deities, and has played a role as a place to pray for the safety of navigation, the prosperity of the region, and the happiness of the people. The three gods of Sumiyoshi are mentioned in the Kojiki and Japan Shoki as gods of the sea, and for the ancient people, the sea was not only a blessing but also an object of awe. Therefore, praying for the safety of navigation was extremely important in supporting daily life.

As time went on, the Heian period, the Kamakura period, and the Muromachi period began to attract reverence from the samurai class. During the Warring States period, it was sometimes caught up in the fires of war, but each time it was rebuilt by the hands of the local people and continued to protect the lamp of faith. In the Edo period, Adaku became a very popular port of call for Kitamae ships, and along with economic prosperity, the importance of the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine increased. Many merchants and sailors came to pray for the safety of navigation and the prosperity of business, and the shrine became the center of the community.

In the Meiji era, when the separation of Shinto and Buddhist shrines was promulgated, the Sumiyoshi Shrine was also greatly affected. However, thanks to the enthusiastic efforts of the local people, the shrine has survived and continues to preserve its history and traditions to this day.

Prayers for the gods and blessings, a wide range of divine virtues, and breaking through difficulties

The three gods of Sumiyoshi, the main deities of the Sumiyoshi Shrine, have been deeply connected to people's lives since ancient times as the gods of the sea and the gods of navigation. They are believed to bring a wide range of benefits, such as a bountiful fishing industry, prosperous business, and family safety, as well as the safety of navigation.

In addition, at the Sumiyoshi Shrine, the god of thunder and the god of sōhiko are also enshrined as Aiden deities. Another thunder god is the god of thunder and is worshipped as the god of amulet, amulet, abundance of five grains, and protection from fire. On the other hand, he is known as the god of wisdom and medicine, and is said to have the benefits of healing illness, academic achievement, and prosperous business.

In particular, the background to the fact that the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine has become widely known as the "spirit god of breaking through difficult barriers" is deeply related to the historical event that it became the stage for the Kabuki play "Sōjin-sho". The story of Benkei's use of his wits to escape the ordeal when Minamoto Yoshitsune and his party passed through the Adaku Seki came to be believed to give people courage and hope, and to give them the strength to overcome difficulties.

In modern society, people who face various difficulties such as exams, employment, promotion, and business success visit the Sumiyoshi Shrine and pray for the blessings of the gods. In order to overcome difficulties and achieve their goals, they seek God's help and believe in their own potential.

A mysterious space created by the sound of pine trees and harmony with nature

The precincts of the shrine are surrounded by a dense pine forest, and the tranquil atmosphere gives visitors peace of mind. As you pass through the torii gate and follow the approach, the wind shakes the pine branches and makes a unique sound. This sound is called "shorai" and has been loved by people since ancient times as a mysterious sound created by nature.

The sound of the pine tree is not only a sound of nature, but also enhances the sacred atmosphere of the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine, and is said to have the effect of calming the minds of visitors and concentrating their minds. When you get away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world and listen to the sound of pine trees, you will be enveloped in a strange sensation, as if you have wandered into another world.

In the world of the tea ceremony, the sound of the pine tree is likened to the sound of boiling water in a tea kettle, and the emphasis is on feeling the sounds of nature in silence. At the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine, you can listen to the sound of the pine tree while calming your mind and facing yourself.

The stage of the book and the place where history and culture come to life

The Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine is widely known as the stage for the kabuki play "Sōjin-sho". "Sōjin Book" is a story that depicts the events that took place in the Adaku no Seki of Kaga Province when Minamoto Yoshitsune's party, which incurred the wrath of Minamoto Yoritomo, fled through Hokuriku to Oshu Hiraizumi.

Togashi Zaemon, the sekimori, suspects Yoshitsune and his party of being suspicious and tries to block their passage. However, Benkei uses his wit to deceive Togashi and succeed in getting Yoshitsune and his party through safely, pretending to read aloud the solicitation book (a document that is read aloud when soliciting donations for the construction or repair of temples and shrines).

This story has captured the hearts of many people because it depicts Benkei's wisdom and loyalty and Yoshitsune's difficult journey. At the Sumiyoshi Shrine, there are bronze statues of Benkei, Minamoto Yoshitsune, and Togashi Zaemon who appear in the book of recruitment, and you can feel the world view of the story closely. In addition, in the precincts, there is also a "power stone of Benkei" that is said to have been lifted by Benkei to test his strength, and you can think about the story.

The Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine is a place where history and culture come to life as a stage for the book of solicitation, and it gives excitement and excitement to those who visit.

Learn about the history of the ruins of the house and the story of the book and experience the story

After passing through the precincts of the Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine, the ruins of the Ataka Seki spread. This is the place where Yoshitsune and his party are said to have passed in the past, and it is a place of historical significance. Bronze statues of Benkei, Minamoto Yoshitsune, and Togashi Zaemon are installed at the Seki site, and it is also gaining popularity as a commemorative photo spot.

At the back of the seki ruins, there is a resting place overlooking the Sea of Japan and a museum called the Kanshin Book Monogatari Museum. At the Kanshin Book Monogatari Museum, you can learn more about the story of the book and the history of the Adaku no Seki. Among the exhibits are scripts and costumes of the Kanshin Book, as well as materials related to kabuki, so you can experience Japan's traditional culture.

The Kanjin Book Museum is a valuable place to learn about history and experience stories, and be sure to stop by when you visit the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine.

The role of Sumiyoshi Ataka Shrine in modern times and its existence as a place of the heart

Modern society is a stressful and competitive society. Many people are exhausted by their daily lives and are looking for peace of mind. The Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine is a place of reverence for such modern people.

Surrounded by beautiful nature, the precincts give visitors peace of mind and time to face themselves in silence. Praying to God also gives people courage and hope, and gives them the strength to overcome difficulties.

The Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine is not just a religious facility, but also serves as a cultural center of the local community. Various festivals and events are held throughout the year, and it is a place for local people to gather and interact.

Prayer for worship and peace of mind

The Sumiyoshi Shrine is worshipped by many people as a god of breaking through difficult obstacles. If you are facing various difficulties in life, such as taking exams, getting a job, getting a promotion, or succeeding in business, why not visit the Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine and pray for God's blessings?

When visiting the shrine, first cleanse the mind and body at the water house, proceed to the main shrine, and pray in front of the deity in the manner of two prayers, two applause, and one worship. Then, express your gratitude on a daily basis and ask God for help with the difficulties you are about to overcome.

It is also recommended to take a walk around the temple grounds, listen to the sound of the pine trees, and feel the energy of nature. It is also important to visit the ruins of the Adaku no Seki and the Museum of Solicitation and Culture, and to experience the history and culture, in order to deepen the richness of the mind.

The Sumiyoshi Shrine is a special place not only for those who pray for breaking through difficult obstacles, but also for those who seek peace of mind. Why don't you spend a quiet time in the precincts surrounded by beautiful nature and heal your heart? I'm sure there will be new discoveries and excitement.

Access information・Access from Komatsu Airport

The Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine is located just a five-minute drive from Komatsu Airport, the air gateway to Ishikawa Prefecture. Komatsu Airport is located 30 km southwest of Kanazawa City, and has regular flights to and from major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka.

It is very convenient to get to Ataka Sumiyoshi Shrine from Komatsu Airport, and you can get there in a short time by renting a car or taking a taxi. There is also a bus from Komatsu Airport to Komatsu Station, and it is also possible to take a taxi from Komatsu Station.

Summary: A fascinating space where history, culture, and faith are woven together

The Sumiyoshi Shrine is a very attractive shrine that combines eternal history, rich nature, and the romance of being the setting for the Kabuki play "Sōjin-sho". As a god of breaking through difficulties, it is a special place for those who seek peace of mind, while attracting the faith of many people.

When you visit Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, why not visit the Sumiyoshi Shrine of Adaku, experience its history and culture, and pray for the blessings of the gods? I am sure that you will gain the courage and strength to overcome difficulties and take a new step.

And if you listen carefully to the sound of the pine tree, you will have an unforgettable experience that will wash your heart. Adaku Sumiyoshi Shrine is such a special place that gently welcomes visitors and gives them healing and hope.

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