Three Sacred Deities and the Origins of the Shrine
According to shrine tradition, Hokoji was founded by Oharida no Yakumochi, who served as governor of Shinano Province. He is said to have brought divided spirits of three deities from important shrines and enshrined them here.
These deities were Amatsuhikohikoho no Ninigi no Mikoto from Izu Shrine, Amatsuhikohikohohode no Mikoto from Hakone Shrine, and Oyamatsumi no Mikoto from Mishima Taisha. According to tradition, their divided spirits were transferred from Gongenyama, west of the town, to the present site.
In 969, the shrine was moved to Kasahara-no-sho in Ina District by Shinano governor Minamoto no Shigeyuki. In 1184, local influential figure Hino Kidayu Muneshige moved it once again to its present location.
The following year, in 1185, a mysterious sacred halberd was discovered buried at the former site in Kasahara-no-sho. The object was enshrined as the sacred object of the shrine, and the name was changed to Hokoji Shrine. The shrine also came to be respectfully known as Hokoji Sansha Daigongen.
Historic Shrine Buildings and a Sacred Stone Stairway
The present main sanctuary was rebuilt in 1774, preserving architectural characteristics of the middle Edo period. A kaguraden, or sacred dance hall, was constructed in 1907, followed by renovation of the worship hall in 1915.
One of the most striking features of Hokoji is the 321 stone steps leading up to the main sanctuary. The climb can feel like a physical challenge, but it is also regarded as a sacred approach to the shrine.
At the entrance to the approach is an area where visitors leave offerings such as daruma dolls. People bring dolls purchased the previous year as an expression of gratitude and leave them before making new wishes for the year ahead.
The long staircase changes its character with the seasons and weather. Surrounded by trees and natural scenery, it creates a distinctive approach where the spiritual atmosphere of the shrine blends with the landscape of Takato.
The Juyokkaichi Daruma Market
A Traditional Festival Dating Back to the Muromachi Period
One of Hokoji Shrine’s best-known events is the Juyokkaichi Daruma Market, held every year on February 11. The market takes place in conjunction with the Toshigoi no Matsuri, an annual festival traditionally held to pray for a good harvest.
The event has a long history dating back to the Muromachi period. In earlier times, the market was associated with the exchange and sale of rice seeds and silkworm eggs, reflecting the agricultural and sericultural economy of the region.
From around the middle of the Meiji period, the sale of daruma dolls became an important part of the event. Over time, it became known as a daruma market and developed into a major annual tradition of the Ina Valley.
Hokoji’s event is known as the only daruma market in the Ina Valley, attracting many worshippers and visitors each year.
The Tradition of the Lucky Daruma
On the day of the market, it is customary to carry the daruma purchased the previous year up the 321 stone steps and offer it at the shrine. The act represents gratitude for the previous year and prayers for happiness and good fortune in the coming year.
After making their offering, visitors traditionally purchase a new lucky daruma on their way home, carrying their hopes and wishes for the year ahead with them.
Stalls line the shrine grounds and surrounding streets, selling daruma dolls, decorative good-luck items, and local specialties. Some areas become pedestrian-only zones, creating a lively atmosphere where families and visitors can enjoy shopping and worship while experiencing a traditional Japanese annual event.
A Shrine Closely Connected to Local Life
Hokoji Shrine is more than a historic place of worship. It remains closely connected with the daily life and traditions of the local community. Forms of prayer that have continued since ancient times are still expressed through events such as the daruma market, allowing religious traditions and local culture to be passed from one generation to the next.
The quiet sanctuary, the wind moving through the 321-step approach, and the lively atmosphere of the daruma market each reveal a different aspect of Hokoji’s character. Together, they show how the shrine has developed alongside the people and natural environment of Takato.
Experience the History and Traditions of Takato
Hokoji Shrine offers a glimpse into more than 1,300 years of religious tradition and local history. Its historic buildings, long stone staircase, ancient traditions, and famous winter daruma market make it an important cultural landmark in Takato.
A visit can be especially memorable during the Juyokkaichi Daruma Market, when the normally quiet shrine surroundings are transformed by colorful daruma dolls, market stalls, and crowds of worshippers. At other times of year, the peaceful approach and forested grounds offer a very different experience.
Whether encountered in the quiet of the seasons or amid the energy of the daruma market, Hokoji provides an opportunity to experience both the ancient faith of Takato and the warmth of a living local tradition.