Overview of Hakusan Shrine
Hakusan Shrine is historically significant not only as a place of worship but also because of the ancient burial mound located within its grounds. The Hakusan Shrine Kofun provides valuable clues about the history of the Boso Peninsula during Japan’s ancient period.
Deities Enshrined at the Shrine
The shrine enshrines the following deities:
Prince Otomo (Emperor Kobun)
Kukuri-hime-no-Kami
History
The Legend of Prince Otomo
According to the shrine’s traditional history, Prince Otomo, also known as Emperor Kobun, fled to this area after losing the Jinshin War in 672. The tradition states that he eventually took his own life here, and the shrine was later established at the site.
A place known as Ogawamiya is also said to have been the location where the prince lived. According to the shrine’s tradition, an imperial envoy was sent to the area in 684, during the reign of Emperor Tenmu, and a shrine building was constructed.
The Shrine as Tawara Shrine
Legends associated with Prince Otomo have survived in many parts of the Boso Peninsula. The former name Tawara Shrine is believed to have connections with the ancient Tashi clan, who are said to have settled in this area.
There is also a theory that the place name Tawara, pronounced Tatara in this context, is connected with tatara iron production, an ancient Japanese method of producing iron. This theory reflects the possible connection between the region and traditional ironworking.
Changes from the Edo Period to the Modern Era
The shrine continued to be known as Tawara Shrine for many centuries. During the middle of the Edo period, Prince Masatoshi, a senior Shinto official, is said to have presented a plaque bearing the name “Tawara Shrine.”
Following the Meiji Restoration, the shrine was renamed Hakusan Shrine. In 1873, it was officially designated as a Gōsha under the modern shrine-ranking system.
Hakusan Shrine Kofun
The Hakusan Shrine Kofun is a large keyhole-shaped burial mound located behind the shrine. It has been designated a Historic Site by Chiba Prefecture and is an important archaeological feature of the area.
Overview of the Kofun
The burial mound stands on the eastern bank of the middle reaches of the Obitsu River and is believed to have been constructed around the late fourth century.
Approximately 17 round burial mounds are distributed in the surrounding area, forming the Hakusan Shrine Kofun Group. With a total length of approximately 89 meters, the Hakusan Shrine Kofun is regarded as one of the major ancient burial mounds along the Obitsu River.
Size of the Burial Mound
Total length: Approximately 89 meters
Rear circular section: Approximately 52 meters in diameter and 10 meters high
Front rectangular section: Approximately 38 meters long, 38 meters wide, and 7 meters high
Archaeological and Cultural Significance
The Hakusan Shrine Kofun was designated a Historic Site by Chiba Prefecture in 1981. It is an important source of information for understanding the ancient history and political landscape of the Boso Peninsula.
The shrine also preserves a sea-animal-and-grape bronze mirror, an archaeological artifact known as a kaiju budo kyo. This artifact adds further archaeological interest to the site.
The Movement to Designate the Kofun as Emperor Kobun’s Tomb
During the Meiji period, a movement emerged to have the Hakusan Shrine Kofun officially recognized as the tomb of Emperor Kobun.
The campaign was led in part by Mori Katsuzo, a former samurai of the Kururi Domain, and involved local residents and scholars. Supporters made various efforts, including submitting petitions and recommendations to the Ministry of the Imperial Household.
Despite these efforts, the burial mound was ultimately not officially recognized as Emperor Kobun’s tomb. The story remains an interesting part of the site’s modern history and demonstrates the strong connection between local traditions, historical research, and imperial legends.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Sando Approach and Zuishinmon Gate
The approach to the shrine features an impressive Zuishinmon gate. Traditionally, Zuishinmon gates are associated with guardian figures who protect sacred shrine grounds, creating a distinctive entrance to the worship area.
Suiten-gu Shrine and Torii Gate
A small Suiten-gu Shrine can also be found within the grounds. Its quiet surroundings provide a peaceful place for prayer and reflection.
The shrine’s torii gate, the traditional entrance marking the boundary of a Shinto sacred area, also adds to the historic atmosphere of the site.
Cultural Property
Hakusan Shrine Kofun is a Historic Site designated by Chiba Prefecture in 1981.
Access to Hakusan Shrine
By Train
Hakusan Shrine is approximately a 15-minute walk from Tawaratada Station on the JR East Kururi Line.
Why Visit Hakusan Shrine?
Hakusan Shrine offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history, legends, and religious traditions of the Boso Peninsula. Its connection with Prince Otomo and Emperor Kobun, together with the large Hakusan Shrine Kofun, makes the site particularly appealing to visitors interested in Japan’s early history.
By combining a visit to the shrine with an exploration of the ancient burial mound, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation of the historical landscape of Kimitsu and the Obitsu River region.
For those exploring Kimitsu City, Hakusan Shrine is a quiet but historically significant destination where Shinto tradition, ancient archaeology, and local legends come together.