Oguni Ryo Shrine

Standing in Miyahara, Oguni, Aso District, Kumamoto, Oguni Ryo Shrine is a venerable shrine long cherished as the guardian of this land. According to its records, the brother deities Takahashi Okami and Hinomiya Okami were ordered by Takeiwatatsu, the pioneer of Aso, to develop the Oguni region, and they taught the people the basics of farming, food, clothing, shelter, and industry. Honoring their great achievements by enshrining both deities is said to be the origin of the shrine name. A tale of good fortune linked to lotteries also survives, drawing worshipers who seek blessings.

Highlights

- The solemn, powerful air of the grounds, fitting for an old shrine that honors brother deities. - The nearby zelkova spring, where water wells up from the roots of a zelkova said to be a thousand years old, a clear water full of vitality. - Mirror Pond, where a granddaughter of Emperor Daigo is said to have offered a prayer for love, together with the shrine forming the three shrines of good fortune. - Lion dances and kagura designated as intangible folk cultural assets, ritual performing arts handed down in the community.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the trees in the grounds bud and the soft light wraps around you. Summer brings coolness from the deep greenery and the clear water of the zelkova spring. Autumn suits quiet worship beneath softly colored trees. In winter, against the crisp air, the snow dusted hall presents a stately figure.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Miyahara, Oguni, Aso District, Kumamoto - By car: About thirty minutes from the Kokonoe interchange on the Oita Expressway, located in the center of Oguni. - Touring the three shrines of good fortune together with the nearby zelkova spring and Mirror Pond is recommended. - Parking is available.

A Quick Tip

If you wish for good fortune, by all means make the tour of the three shrines of good luck, visiting the shrine, the zelkova spring, and Mirror Pond. Pausing with the clear spring water seems to clear the mind as well.