The Story of Sanage Shrine and Prince Ōusu-no-Mikoto
Sanage Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located at the foot of Mount Sanage, in the northern edge of the Nishimikawa Plain, spanning Toyota, Okazaki, and Nishio Cities in Aichi Prefecture.
The deity enshrined here is Ōusu-no-Mikoto, the twin elder brother of Yamato Takeru, one of Japan’s legendary heroic princes.
Origins and Legends of the Shrine
The shrine is said to have been founded in 192 AD, during the reign of Emperor Chūai, who was the son of Yamato Takeru.
According to shrine legend, Ōusu-no-Mikoto lost his life after being bitten by a poisonous snake while helping to develop the surrounding area.
His tomb (misasagi) still remains halfway up Mount Sanage, quietly nestled in the forest.
Differences from the Kojiki Records
Interestingly, the circumstances of his death differ between the Kojiki (Japan’s oldest chronicle) and the shrine’s own legends.
While the Kojiki suggests he was exiled for defying the imperial court, the shrine legend portrays him as a noble figure who died during local development efforts.
It seems that Ōusu-no-Mikoto, the enshrined deity, was left-handed.
The Ritual of Offering Left-Handed Sickles (Hidarigama Hōnō)
At Sanage Shrine, there is a unique and ancient practice of offering left-handed sickles (hidarigama) as a form of devotion.
This custom honors the divine virtue of Ōusu-no-Mikoto, who is believed to have developed and cultivated the surrounding region. The sickles are offered to pray for the fulfillment of various wishes.
Left-Handedness and the Twin Legend
According to local tradition, in twin births, one child is often left-handed. Ōusu-no-Mikoto, as the elder twin of Yamato Takeru, is said to have been left-handed.
This connection is believed to be the origin of offering left-handed sickles to pray for good harvests, healing from illness, and general good fortune.
Modern Practice and Safety Prayers
On the ema (votive plaques) at Hidari-Kama Shrine, many names can be seen from Toyota Motor Corporation’s development departments, its various factories, and affiliated companies.
According to legend, Prince Ōusu (Ōusu no Mikoto) was involved in pioneering and development work, which has led to deep reverence from research and development sectors.
It would not be an exaggeration to call him the deity who made Toyota the number one carmaker in the world.
Today, many companies and organizations offer left-handed sickles at the shrine to pray for traffic safety and workplace safety.
Access and Visitor Information
How to get to Sanage Shrine:
- Nearest station: Meitetsu Toyota Line “Sanage Station”, then 15 minutes by bus or taxi
- Parking: Available and free
Many visitors enjoy combining their visit with a nature hike, as the shrine is surrounded by a peaceful forested area with a sacred atmosphere.
