Isonokami Shrine - Artifacts

Artifacts

The Nanatsusaya-no-Tachi, a seven-branched sword, is housed in Isonokami shrine. It was given to the Yamato king by the crown prince of Baekje, a kingdom on the Korean Peninsula. The sword has been kept in Isonokami shrine since ancient times, perhaps as early as the 4th century when it was received from Baekje. It was rediscovered in 1873, and its gold inlaid inscription has proven to be a valuable historical resource. The sword is currently not available for public viewing.

The Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi, a legendary sword, is also said to be kept at Isonokami shrine. It is one of the three Imperial Regalia of Japan. According to the Kojiki, the sword was used by the god Susanoo to slay the Yamata-no-Orochi, a giant serpent with eight heads and eight tails. Unfortunately, priests at the shrine will not allow anyone to see or inspect the sword.

Ten treasures brought by Amenohiboko are thought to be housed in Isonokami shrine. According to the Nihon Shoki, Amenohiboko was a prince from Korea who settled in Japan. The ten treasures he brought are known as the Tokusa-no-Kandakara, and they are as follows.

• Okitsu-kagami (A mirror)
• Hetsu-kagami (A mirror)
• Yatsuka-no-tsurugi (A sword)
• Iku-tama (A jewel)
• Makarukaheshi-tama (A jewel)
• Taru-tama (A jewel)
• Chikaheshi-no-tama (A jewel)
• Orochi-no-hire (A type of long scarf worn by women)
• Hachi-no-hire (A type of long scarf worn by women)
• Kusagusa-no-mono-no-hire (A type of long scarf worn by women)