⛩️ Osaki Hachiman Shrine

During the construction of Sendai Castle, Date Masamune ordered the relocation of Osaki Hachiman Shrine to the northwest direction of Shugai. Since then, it has become the guardian shrine of Sendai, particularly revered as the protector of those born in the year of the Dog and the Boar, earning the admiration of the people of Sendai. A highlight of the shrine is the main hall, designated as a national treasure, which is said to be a masterpiece of Momoyama architecture. The overall design of the worship hall features black lacquer, creating a solemn atmosphere, while the roof and brackets are adorned with meticulously designed vibrant decorations. Due to the shrine's effectiveness in granting victory, it is particularly popular among athletes, and many ema (votive plaques) from Sendai football and baseball players praying for victory are hung on the long bench behind the approach to the shrine. The "Matsubaki Festival," held annually on January 14, is quite famous. During this festival, New Year's decorations are burned in the shrine's precincts, and by lighting the sacred fire, people pray for a year free of illness and disasters, as well as for family safety. This festival has a history of three hundred years. In other regions, it is commonly referred to as "Donto Matsuri (どんと祭)." Some worshippers, dressed in thin white cloth and resembling near-nakedness, participate in the "naked worship," which has become a winter tradition in Sendai.

The elegantly decorated shrine is a must-see highlight. It is said to bring victory and good fortune. The Matsukake Festival is a symbolic event of winter in Sendai.