It is said that this shrine was founded when Emperor Jimmu came to power in a time shrouded by legend and myth. According to the story, the Emperor declared Omishima, south of Hiroshima, as the seat of the gods. It is an idylic site for a spiritual stronghold, with its rocky forested islands surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea.
Today, this shrine is a pilgrimmage destination for those who are dedicated to Budo, or the martial way. At the shrine the priests and priestesses perform various rite and distribute the ubiquitous Shinto talismans, called omamori, for martial skill and protection. The shrine, which is quite picturesque with its canopy of giant camphor trees, is not the main attraction, however. It is in fact the treasure house which draws visitors to the shrine.
Throughout Japan's history, military leaders prayed for victory at Oyamazumi. When they succeeded in battle, these warriors returned to the shrine to offer their arms as tribute to the gods. Over the centuries, the shrine developed a reputation for bringing luck to soldiers who furthered the tradition by bringing their prized weapons and armour to the shrine to propitiate the gods. In this way, the shinre grew into Japan's greatest martial museum. Of all the items Japan lists as cultural and national treasures, 80% of them are housed at Oyamazumi Shrine.
The building that houses the collection is an austere concrete and steel building which doesn't distract the eye from the fabulous blades, armour and Shinto relagia. The highlights include a suit of armour with a large breastplate said to have been worn by a warlord's daughter who fought to protect Omishima. This armour, a designated national treasure, is believed to be the only surviving example of women's armour in Japan. Another fine example of women fighter's equipment is the naginata, or haplberd blade, which belonged to Tomoe Gozen, a female warrior of the Minamoto clan.
Some other treasures include Minamoto no Yoshitsune's armour. His older brother, Yoritomo, was the shogun who founded the Kamakura Period (1200-1300). Their swords are also housed in the museum, along with the halberd blades, ritual long swords, archery equipment and stutuary belonging to dozens of Japan's famous warriors.
In addition to the weapon collection, there are many fine examples of Shinto and Buddhist ritual items. One display features an extensive collection of dokyo, palm-sized copper mirrors used in rituals and prayers.
Like most museums in Japan, visitors cannot take pictures. However, the grounds and shrine exteriors offer many points of interest for photographers.
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