Shichimen Shrine (Chiba Prefecture) Complete Guide: Exploring the Mito Komon Legend and the Mystery of the Sacred Object
Shichimen Shrine, located in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture, is a historic shrine with legends connected to Tokugawa Mitsukuni, known as Mito Komon. We provide a detailed introduction to this shrine full of historical romance, including its deep connections with Hondoji Temple and the sacred object said to have been created by Mitsukuni himself.
What is Shichimen Shrine: A Hidden Sacred Place in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture
Shichimen Shrine (七面神社) is a general term for shrines dedicated to Shichimen faith that exist in multiple locations in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture. Particularly well-known are the two shrines located in the Ogane-hara and Ogane districts, each with their own unique history and traditions.
Reading and Name of Shichimen Shrine
It is commonly read as “shichimenjinja,” though locals sometimes call it “shichimanjinja.” This name derives from the worship of Shichimen Daimyojin (Shichimen Tennyo), said to protect the Lotus Sutra in the Nichiren sect. Shichimen Daimyojin is widely revered as the guardian deity of Senzenji Temple on Mount Minobu and is worshipped at various Nichiren sect temples throughout the country. Considered a manifestation of the Dragon God, she is particularly credited with blessings for protection from water disasters, prosperous business, and good fortune.
Shichimen Shrine in Ogane-hara, Matsudo City: The Stage of the Mito Komon Legend
Location and Access
Address: 2-21-2 Oganehara, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture
Nearest Station: Approximately 27-minute walk from the south exit of “Kitakogane Station” on the JR Joban Line, or accessible by bus from “Tokiwadaira Station” on the Shin-Keisei Line
By Car: Approximately 15 minutes from “Kashiwa IC” on the Joban Expressway. As parking is limited, public transportation is recommended.
The Legend of Mito Komon’s Great Serpent Slaying
Shichimen Shrine in Ogane-hara preserves a legend related to Tokugawa Mitsukuni, the renowned daimyo of the Edo period, called the “Great Serpent Slaying Legend.”
According to the legend, a great serpent once inhabited this area and tormented the villagers. When Mitsukuni heard of this, he personally visited the area and slew the serpent. Afterwards, to prevent further calamities, Mitsukuni himself carved a statue of Shichimen Daimyojin and is said to have dedicated it to Hondoji Temple.
This legend has been passed down in the community as a tale of Mitsukuni’s compassion for his people and the spiritual power of Shichimen Daimyojin.
Characteristics of the Sacred Object: The Shichimen Daimyojin Statue Said to Have Been Made by Mitsukuni
The sacred object of Shichimen Shrine in Ogane-hara is a statue of Shichimen Daimyojin said to have been created by Tokugawa Mitsukuni himself. The statue bears the inscription “Shichimen Daimyojin,” and the base features a skillfully carved serpent coiled around it.
Originally, this sacred object was enshrined at Hondoji Temple (Chokokusan Hondoji) in Hiraga, Matsudo City, but was later transferred to its current location. Hondoji Temple is known as a renowned temple of the Nichiren sect and has deep connections with Tokugawa Mitsukuni.
The serpent carving symbolizes that Shichimen Daimyojin is a manifestation of the Dragon God, while also connecting with the legend of the great serpent slaying.
History of Establishment and Connection with the Anbiru Clan
Shichimen Shrine is said to have been established as a guardian shrine of the Anbiru clan, powerful local magnates of the area. The Anbiru clan were influential figures in the Ogane region and protected this shrine through successive generations.
As to the founding date, there are various theories, but it is believed to date to the early to mid-Edo period. The period overlaps with when Tokugawa Mitsukuni was active in the latter half of the 17th century to the early 18th century, leading scholars to point out the connection with the legend of Mitsukuni’s donation.
Shichimen Shrine in Ogane, Matsudo City: Another Center of Shichimen Faith
Location and Basic Information
Address: 1670-2 Ogane, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture
Affiliation: Chiba Prefectural Shrine Association, Japan Shrine Association
Shichimen Shrine in the Ogane district is also an important shrine that gathers community faith. Though a separate shrine from Shichimen Shrine in Ogane-hara, it similarly enshrines Shichimen Daimyojin and is revered as the guardian deity of the community.
Community Connection
Shichimen Shrine in the Ogane district is a quiet shrine nestled in a residential neighborhood, serving as a place of daily faith for local residents. It receives many visitors during life milestones such as New Year visits, Shichigosan celebrations, and exorcism of bad luck.
Historical Background of Shichimen Faith
The Nichiren Sect and Shichimen Daimyojin
Shichimen Daimyojin holds a special place in the Nichiren sect. In the Kamakura period, when Nichi-o, a senior disciple of the saint Nichiren, was practicing asceticism on Mount Minobu, a goddess appeared on Mount Shichimen and promised to protect the Lotus Sutra. This tradition is said to be the origin of the faith.
The goddess appeared in the form of a young woman, but her true form was said to be a Dragon God. Since then, she has been revered as “Shichimen Daimyojin” and “Shichimen Tennyo.”
The Spread of Shichimen Faith in the Kanto Region
In the Edo period, Shichimen faith became widely prevalent, especially in the Kanto region. Particularly in areas with many Nichiren sect temples, shrines and halls dedicated to Shichimen Daimyojin were established throughout the region.
Within Chiba Prefecture, in addition to Shichimen Shrine in Matsudo City, multiple centers of Shichimen faith exist, such as Soshu Shichimenyama in Katsuura City. Within Tokyo as well, there are many places of Shichimen faith, including Yoishiyama Eikoji in Shinjuku Ward, Sanjubanshinen Shichimen Daimyojin Shrine in Adachi Ward, and Miwa Shichimenyama in Machida City.
Deep Connections with Hondoji Temple
Overview of Hondoji Temple
Hondoji Temple (Chokokusan Hondoji) is a renowned temple of the Nichiren sect located in Hiraga, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture. It is said to have been founded in 1277 (Kenchi 3) by Nichi-o, a senior disciple of Saint Nichiren, and occupies a particularly important position among Nichiren sect temples in the Kanto region.
Also known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” it is beautified by approximately 10,000 hydrangeas in the grounds in early summer. The autumn foliage is also beautiful, attracting many visitors.
Tokugawa Mitsukuni and Hondoji Temple
Tokugawa Mitsukuni is known for the compilation of the “Dainihon Shi” (Comprehensive History of Japan) and visited various temples and shrines throughout the country for historical research. Hondoji Temple is said to have been one of the temples Mitsukuni visited, and the legend of his dedication of the Shichimen Daimyojin statue is based on this connection.
While Mitsukuni valued Confucianism, he also showed understanding for folk beliefs and did not neglect his reverence for Shinto and Buddhism for the peace of the region. The creation and dedication of the Shichimen Daimyojin statue exemplifies this attitude of Mitsukuni.
Blessings and Faith of Shichimen Shrine
Principal Blessings
The Shichimen Daimyojin enshrined at Shichimen Shrine is said to provide the following blessings:
- Protection from Water Disasters and Maritime Safety: As a manifestation of the Dragon God, she protects from water-related misfortunes
- Prosperous Business: Merchants have particularly strong faith and seek the success of their enterprises
- Opening Fortune and Inviting Good Fortune: Opening one’s luck and inviting blessings
- Warding Off Bad Luck and Disasters: Based on the serpent-slaying legend, she repels all manner of calamities
- Household Safety: Protecting the peace and health of the family
- Safe Childbirth and Fertility: As a goddess, she grants the wishes of women
Etiquette for Visiting
While Shichimen Shrine is a Shinto shrine, it bears the influence of the Nichiren sect, so the visitation method has unique characteristics. Generally, the same etiquette as ordinary shrines is acceptable, but sincere devotion is most important.
- Make a bow before passing through the torii gate
- Purify body and spirit at the water basin
- Make a light bow before the prayer hall
- Place an offering
- Bow twice, clap twice, then bow once (or place palms together in prayer)
- Silently state your wish
- Bow and depart
Goshuin (Shrine Stamps) and Offerings
Availability of Goshuin
Shichimen Shrine in Matsudo City may not provide goshuin regularly. Those wishing to receive a goshuin are advised to confirm in advance.
Nearby Hondoji Temple does provide goshuin, and it is also possible to receive goshuin related to Shichimen Daimyojin. Visiting both temples together is also a good option.
Amulets and Offerings
Being a small shrine, it is not certain that offerings are always available, though special offerings may be prepared during local festivals.
Annual Events and Festivals
Grand Annual Festival
Shichimen Shrine holds an annual grand festival. Local shrine parishioners and devotees gather to pray for the maintenance of the shrine and the peace of the community. As specific dates vary by year, those planning a visit are advised to confirm in advance.
New Year Visits, Setsubun, and Shichigosan
As a community shrine, it accommodates annual events such as New Year visits, Setsubun festivals, and Shichigosan celebrations. Particularly during the Shichigosan season, families from the community visit to pay their respects.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Hondoji Temple (Hydrangea Temple)
When visiting Shichimen Shrine, be sure to also visit Hondoji Temple. The hydrangea season in June and the autumn foliage season in November are particularly spectacular.
Address: 63 Hiraga, Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture
Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry 4:30 PM)
Admission: Adults 500 yen, free for middle school students and younger (during flower seasons)
Ogane Castle Site
A castle site from the Sengoku period and the castle of the Takaki clan. Now developed as a park, it offers historical walks.
Tozennji Temple
A Jodo sect temple founded in the Muromachi period, with structures designated as cultural properties of Matsudo City.
Points for Visiting Shichimen Shrine
Best Times to Visit
Shichimen Shrine is open to visitors year-round, but the following periods are especially recommended:
- Spring (March to May): Fresh greenery is beautiful and the weather is mild
- Early Summer (June): Visit together with the hydrangeas at Hondoji Temple
- Autumn (October to November): Fall foliage season; Hondoji Temple is also beautiful
- New Year (January 1-3): New Year visits
Time Required
A visit to Shichimen Shrine alone takes about 15 to 30 minutes. If visiting both Shichimen Shrine and Hondoji Temple, plan for 2 to 3 hours.
Clothing and Supplies
- Appropriate attire for visiting (casual is fine, but clean appearance is preferred)
- Comfortable walking shoes (for the walk to the shrine and the grounds)
- Camera (photography is allowed on the grounds, but sacred objects may be prohibited from photography)
- Beverages (especially in summer)
Other Shichimen Faith Sites in Chiba Prefecture
Soshu Shichimenyama (Katsuura City)
A sacred site of Shichimen faith in Katsuura City, Chiba Prefecture. It has a unique form of faith connected with mountain worship, drawing many visitors annually.
Other Nichiren Sect Temples
As Chiba Prefecture is the birthplace of Saint Nichiren (present-day Kamogawa City), many Nichiren sect temples exist throughout the prefecture. Shichimen Daimyojin is enshrined at various temples, allowing visitors to experience the spread of Shichimen faith.
Planning a Visit to Shichimen Shrine
Sample Itineraries
Half-Day Course (approximately 3 hours)
- Arrival at JR Kitakogane Station
- Hondoji Temple visit (90 minutes)
- Shichimen Shrine visit (30 minutes)
- Local exploration and lunch (60 minutes)
- Return from Kitakogane Station
Full-Day Course (approximately 6 hours)
- Arrival at JR Kitakogane Station
- Hondoji Temple visit (120 minutes)
- Lunch (60 minutes)
- Ogane Castle Site tour (60 minutes)
- Shichimen Shrine visit (30 minutes)
- Tozennji Temple visit (60 minutes)
- Return from Kitakogane Station
Nearby Dining Establishments
The Kitakogane Station area offers diverse dining options including soba restaurants, traditional Japanese food, and cafes. Tea houses and dining establishments at the foot of Hondoji Temple are also available for rest after visiting.
Conclusion: Experiencing History and Faith at Shichimen Shrine
Shichimen Shrine in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture, is a shrine full of historical romance where the legend of Mito Komon and Shichimen faith converge. Despite its small size, the shrine holds many stories, including the Shichimen Daimyojin statue said to have been created by Mitsukuni and enshrined as the sacred object, the legend of the great serpent slaying, and its deep connections with Hondoji Temple.
Shichimen Daimyojin, the guardian deity of the Nichiren sect, has long responded to the varied prayers of people, including protection from water disasters, prosperous business, and good fortune. Visiting Shichimen Shrine, nestled quietly in a residential neighborhood, allows one to feel the faith rooted in the community and the weight of history continuing from the Edo period.
When combined with a visit to the hydrangeas and autumn foliage of Hondoji Temple, your visit will be even more fulfilling. When visiting Matsudo City, be sure to visit Shichimen Shrine and experience the footsteps of Mito Komon and the blessings of Shichimen Daimyojin.
