熱田神宮のお守り An Omamori from Atsuta Jingu

An old woman enters Atsuta Jingu, one of Shinto's holiest shrines.

Atsuta Jingu is one of Japan's most important shrines, ranking amongst the famous Ise Jingu in Mie Prefecture. The shrine complex is dedicated to the veneration of Atsuta-no-Okami, as well as the five kami of Atsuta, regional deities. In Shintoism, there are three sacred treasures brought down to earth by kami from the Heavenly Plane: a sword, a mirror, and beads. Atsuta Jingu is venerated as the host of the sacred sword, Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi. Over fifty different festivals are held every year, and the Atsuta treasure house contains records, artwork, and sacred artifacts from every historical era. When I visited the shrine, the museum hosted an exhibition on samurai swords in the shrine's collection. 

Buses full of tourists visit Atsuta Jingu year round. I visited the shrine several times while living in Nagoya and witnessed three Shinto weddings and a purification ceremony. Wondering the huge grounds and enjoying the architecture and culture of worship 

Guests return omamori to the shrine at a building beside an old, sacred tree at Atsuta. Omamori are believed to lose their potency after one year. 

Families and visitors roam Atsuta Jingu's expansive park-like grounds.

Atsuta Jingu, although reconstructed after the war, is home to examples of Japan's native architectural style. This style, shinmei zukuri, features dramatic rooftops and clean, sparse lines. Visitors worship at a distance from the honden, or the home of the kami. 

Atsuta Jingu is a sprawling complex with over a dozen smaller shrines dedicated to minor deities. 

Visitors flock to buy omamori at Atsuta. Shinto priestesses handle purchases in a long, special building. A couple prepares to leave the shrine, satisfied with their purchases.

My omamori purchases at Atsuta Jingu. Many large shrines sell omamori corresponding the different zodiac animals. (In Japan, the animals are usually incredibly cute.) I also purchased a miniature wooden shrine that is meant to be placed in offices or homes, so that the blessings of Atsuta can follower the purchaser wherever they go. 

An old woman leaves Atsuta Jingu.