Okunitama Shrine

Ōkunitama Shrine, located in Fuchu City in western Tokyo, stands as one of the oldest and most significant Shinto shrines in the Kanto region. The shrine was established in 111 AD during the reign of Emperor Keiko, making it nearly 2,000 years old. It was founded to enshrine Ōkunitama-no-Ōkami, the guardian deity of Musashi Province, which encompassed present-day Tokyo, Saitama, and parts of Kanagawa. The shrine served as the political and spiritual center of the province for centuries, and the surrounding Fuchu area developed as the provincial capital during the Nara and Heian periods.

The shrine holds exceptional cultural importance as it enshrines not only Ōkunitama-no-Ōkami but also the six deities from major shrines throughout the former Musashi Province. This consolidation earned it the designation of Musashi Ichinomiya, the highest-ranking shrine in the province. The main hall, rebuilt in 1645, exemplifies Edo-period shrine architecture and has been designated as a Tokyo Metropolitan Tangible Cultural Property. The grounds feature ancient ginkgo trees that are over 1,000 years old, creating a serene atmosphere particularly striking during autumn when the leaves turn golden.

Visitors experience a working shrine that maintains active ceremonial traditions throughout the year. The Kurayami Matsuri (Darkness Festival) held from April 30 to May 6 is one of Tokyo's most significant festivals, drawing over 700,000 visitors annually. The festival features dramatic nighttime processions, portable shrine parades, and traditional taiko drumming that recreate ancient rituals once performed in complete darkness. The shrine's treasure house displays historical artifacts, including ancient mirrors and ceremonial objects. The approach to the shrine is lined with traditional shops and restaurants, particularly along the historic Keyaki Namiki (zelkova tree-lined street).

Ōkunitama Shrine is easily accessible from central Tokyo via the Keio Line or JR Musashino and Nambu Lines to Fuchu Station, approximately 3 minutes' walk from the shrine. Alternatively, take the Keio Line to Fuchu-honmachi Station, which is about 5 minutes' walk away. The shrine grounds are open 24 hours with free admission, though the treasure house requires a small fee of 300 yen for adults. English information is limited, so visitors may benefit from researching the shrine's history beforehand to fully appreciate its significance.