Experience the depth of Uzumasa's history at the mystical Oosake Shrine

The Uzumasa area, with its long history, is a prestigious area within Kyoto. Standing in one corner of this area is the Oosake Shrine. This shrine conveys the enshrined deity of the immigrant powerful clan, the Hata clan, to the present day. The main enshrined deities include the first Emperor of Qin, Prince Yuzuki, and Count Sake of Qin, who are deeply involved in the history of China.

The first Emperor of Qin in Kyoto? Reflecting on its origins

It feels strange to enshrine the first Emperor of Qin at a shrine in Japan. In reality, according to the genealogy of the Kotoku-ji Temple, it is said that the descendants of the first Emperor of Qin came to Japan and supplicated the enshrined deity at this location. Whether this is true or not remains unclear, but it is certain that this was the enshrined deity of the Hata clan, who developed the Uzumasa area from ancient times.

Feeling the weight of history in its simple appearance

As you step into the precincts, you will see the simple main hall. There is no worship hall, and the modest scene is only marked by stone lanterns on either side of the main hall. However, it is impossible not to feel the weight of its long history. It is said that a festival called