Hidden in the middle of Onoyama Park, in the center of Naha city, Yomochi Shrine is an ancient shrine surrounded by trees and nature. Forget about the busy shrines of mainland Japan, where many visitors come to pray and light up incense sticks. One of Yomochi Shrine’s peculiarities is its peaceful atmosphere and elusiveness.
Yomochi Shrine was built in 1937, during the Showa Period. It is dedicated to three important men who gave a great contribution to Okinawa’s history: General Noguni, Gima Shinjo, and Saion. In 1605, General Noguni brought from China the cultivation method of sweet potato, helping villagers in cultivating agricultural products in difficult times of typhoons and droughts. Gima Shinjo’s contribution to the island involved the cultivation of cotton and the sugarcane refinement technology. As for Saion, he was an able administrator and great statesman who served King Shoei
Did you know?
The shrine was built with the purpose of worshipping the beneficiaries of Okinawa, so that their children and grandchildren could benefit from it.
The shrine is definitely ancient and built with humble techniques. The first feeling, when reaching the main hall, is to be standing in front of a small house, more than a shrine. However, the semplicity of this structure gives the visitor a more natural feeling compared to other busy shrines. Visiting this shrine gives a very peaceful feeling and shows how in the past the locals where in close connection to nature, where the gods were believed to exist.
If you are passing through Onoyama Park, we definitely recommend a visit to Yomochi Shrine. It’s free, it will take no more than 10 minutes, and it will definitely give you the feeling of discovering one of the many hidden secrets of Okinawa.
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