Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Okunitama Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Fuchu City, Tokyo, which has long been a representative shrine of Musashi Province (present-day Tama region) and has attracted widespread faith. Founded a long time ago, the shrine is said to have a history of over a thousand years, and is notable for having played the role of a central shrine for the region. The shrine grounds are surrounded by a forest, and the calm atmosphere where nature remains in all four seasons makes it a place of relaxation for local residents.
The annual festival, the Kurayami Festival, is particularly famous and is an ancient festival held from late April to early May. It features a fire procession, a portable shrine procession, and other traditional events, and is also attracting attention as a traditional Edo/Tokyo event.
Highlights
- The large torii gate and approach to the shrine: The imposing torii gate and the lush green approach to the shrine are great photo spots. The cherry blossoms in spring and the beautiful colors of the trees in autumn are beautiful.
- Main hall and worship hall: Traditional shrine architecture. You can worship quietly and enjoy the atmosphere of a sacred area.
- Kurayami Festival (Regular Festival, late April to early May): A festival that conveys ancient customs such as a torchlight procession, a portable shrine, and nighttime rituals. Particularly noteworthy are the dark ritual on the first day and the dedication ceremony on the final day.
- Seasonal nature: The temple grounds are filled with large trees and seasonal flowers, making it a great place for a stroll. The cherry blossoms in spring, the fresh greenery in early summer, and the colorful leaves in autumn are beautiful.
- Local events and traditional processions: In addition to festivals, local events are held throughout the year, providing opportunities to experience traditional culture.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Fuchu Station on the Keio Line or JR Nambu Line, approximately 3-7 minutes on foot (depending on the station exit).
- Other nearby stations: JR Fuchu-Honmachi Station is about a 10-minute walk away, and Keio Line Bunbeigawara Station is about a 12-15 minute walk away.
- Bus: Accessible by local bus around Fuchu Station. Please check the bus stop such as "Okunitama Shrine Mae" for your destination.
- By car: There is a parking lot near the temple grounds, but it gets crowded on festival days and during New Year's visits. We recommend using public transportation.
- Temple grounds opening hours: The temple grounds are generally open to worship at any time, but the shrine office (for offering gifts, red seal reception, etc.) is open from morning until evening. Please check the official website for details.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visit only: Approximately 20-30 minutes (including visiting the shrine, drawing a fortune, and a short stroll)
- A leisurely stroll around the temple grounds and taking photos: 30-60 minutes
- When participating in festivals or events: Half day to full day (may be extended significantly depending on the festival program)
Nearby spots
- Shopping streets and cafes around Fuchu Station: Convenient for eating and resting after visiting the shrine.
- Fuchu City Local Forest Museum (walk or bus): Enjoy local documents, old houses, and seasonal flowers.
- Fuchu no Mori Park: A large green space perfect for strolling and picnics.
- Nearby historical sites and folk museums: Fuchu is an area that has deep ties to the history of Musashi Province, so there are spots where you can learn about local history.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The Kurayami Festival (late April to early May) and New Year's visits to the shrine can be extremely crowded. We recommend using public transportation and avoiding early morning and evening visits.
- Worship Manners: Please observe basic worship etiquette, such as bowing once when passing through the torii gate, purifying yourself at the temizuya (purification fountain), bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more when praying. Please follow the instructions of those involved during religious ceremonies and festivals.
- Photography: Photography is permitted in most areas of the temple grounds, but please refrain from taking photos of religious ceremonies or scenes of individuals praying. Photography may be prohibited inside the shrine buildings or during certain festivals.
- Footing and clothing: The temple grounds are made up of gravel paths and stone steps, so wear comfortable shoes. Be careful as it can be slippery in rainy weather.
- Seasonal precautions: Take precautions against the heat during summer festivals and daytime, and against the cold in winter. Also be mindful of pollen and insects.
Before visiting, it is a good idea to check the official website or the shrine office for the latest information (festival dates, reception hours for the shrine gift shop, traffic restrictions, etc.). Okunitama Shrine is a place where you can feel the history and spirit of the local area, so please relax and enjoy your visit and stroll around.
