Makata Shrine
A shrine of the deity of musuhi, home to the largest cryptomeria in eastern Japan.
History and Divine Virtue
This ancient shrine is said to have been founded some 1,700 years ago by Itsukori no Mikoto, provincial governor of Inba, and it appears in the register of deities in the Heian-period "Engishiki," marking it as a shrine of official rank. It is the head shrine of the eighteen Makata shrines in the surrounding region. Its deity is Wakumusuhi no Mikoto, a deification of the very working of musuhi — the power that brings forth and nurtures all things between heaven and earth — held to preside over grain, sericulture, and the origins of every industry, a deity that resonates directly with the name of this very journal, Musuhi. Towering in the far left of the grounds is the sacred cryptomeria, over 1,300 years old, roughly 8 meters around and 40 meters tall — the largest cryptomeria in eastern Japan, designated in 1935 as the first natural monument of Chiba Prefecture. Known for blessings of long life and thriving industry, it draws many visitors today who come to see the great tree. Resting in a wooded plateau near Lake Inba, it is a shrine of deep pedigree that has guarded this land since ancient times.
Visiting Notes
- The sacred cryptomeria is the largest in eastern Japan; visitors come without end to pray for long life, drawing on its vital force.
- As the head shrine of the eighteen Makata shrines, it is an old shrine of the Hokuso region with a long pedigree as a shrine of official rank.
- Its deity Wakumusuhi no Mikoto presides over musuhi — a shrine to place first among visits when praying to tie a bond.
A shrine that enshrines musuhi itself — the very source of the name of this journal, Musuhi. It stands first among places to visit when you wish to bring something forth, nurture it, and tie it anew. The sacred cryptomeria is also a symbol of the earth element and of vital life force.
Deities and Location
- Enshrined Deities
- Wakumusuhi no Mikoto
- Location
- 千葉県成田市台方 (Chiba)
- Access
- About 20 minutes on foot from Kozunomori Station (Keisei Main Line), or by bus from Narita Station (JR / Keisei)
- Lineage
- Moto-Ise & Mythology
Visiting hours, goshuin (shrine stamps), and festival dates change; please confirm the latest information through each shrine's official announcements. If you find an error in this entry, we would be grateful if you let us know.
Visit Records
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