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Journey into Myth and Legend: Discovering Senoumi Shrine at Ryugu Cave
Location: Fujikawaguchiko, Yamanashi, Japan
Timestamp: 10:36・2024/03/20
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
28 mm ISO 100 for 2.0 sec. at ƒ/10
Located at the mouth of Ryugu Cave, the Senoumi Shrine is just one example of ancient reverence for nature and mythology in Japanese culture. Enshrined within the shrine is Toyotamhime-no-Mikoto, revered as both a goddess of rain and safe childbirth.
The name "Ryugu," translating to "dragon palace," is steeped in local legends portraying it as the abode of a water deity manifested in the form of a dragon. Historical records, dating back to 907 CE, recount a time of famine where prayers were offered at the cave's entrance, beseeching for favorable weather to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Stretching approximately 96 meters (315 feet) into the earth, the lava-formed cavern is believed to reach Lake Sako. Note that entry beyond the shrine is strictly prohibited due to the risk of collapse.
Nestled within the lush Aokigahara-Jukai Forest, reaching the cave from Tokyo is a journey of less than three hours via the Chuo Expressway, although travel times may vary depending on traffic. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a scenic bus ride, disembarking at the Ryugu-Doketsu Iriguchi Bus Stop, a mere 6-minute walk from the shrine.
Touted in Japanese media as a "power spot," Senoumi Shrine is believed to be a focal point of spiritual energy and healing properties, its significance intertwined with the surrounding natural landscape and historical context.
Despite the shrine’s physical size and being off the beaten path of most tourists, the shrine hosts the annual Ryugu Festival on August 2nd, a vibrant celebration featuring floating lanterns and a spectacular fireworks display over the tranquil waters of nearby Lake Saiko.
竜宮洞穴・Ryugu-Doketsu: Dragon Cave
剗海神社・Senoumi-Jinja: Senoumi Shrine
豊玉姫命・Toyotamahime-no-Mikoto: goddess of rain, water, and safe birth
References:
- Google Maps: Dragon Cave (竜宮洞穴・Ryugu-Doketsu) and Senomui Shrine (剗海神社・Senoumi-Jinja)
- Google Maps: Ryugudoketsu-Iriguchi Bus Stop (竜宮洞穴入口バス停52)
- Wikipedia: Fujiko (English)
- Yamanashi Prefecture: Mt. Fuji Guidebook (Japanese)
- Yamanashi Tourism Organization: Senoumi-Jinja Shrine (Japanese)
- Japan Tourism Agency: Lake Saiko (English)
- Yamanashi Jinjacho: 剗海神社・Senoumi-Jinja (Japanese)
- Yamanashi Prefecture: The sacred place and source of artistic inspiration
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