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Discover Oshirasama: The Horse-Daughter Deity of Tōno, Iwate

Oshirasama and her horse ascending to the heavens in a vibrant autumn landscape.

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In Tōno, Iwate Prefecture, the legend of Oshirasama—a unique household deity—captures the imagination with its compelling narrative of love, loss, and transformation. This tale, deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of Tōno, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich folklore and traditions.

Oshirasama and her horse ascending to the heavens in a vibrant autumn landscape.
AI生成イメージ / AI-generated illustration (not a photograph of the actual place)

Introduction to Oshirasama and the Folklore of Tōno

FACT: What the records say

Tōno, located in Iwate Prefecture, is renowned for its rich tapestry of folklore, as chronicled in the famous “Tōno Monogatari” by Kunio Yanagita. This collection of stories serves as a cornerstone for understanding the region’s cultural heritage. The area is a treasure trove of narratives featuring yokai, spirits, and deities, with Oshirasama being one of the most prominent figures. This deity is often associated with sericulture and agriculture, reflecting the traditional livelihoods of the area. The tales of Tōno provide a fascinating insight into how the people of the region have historically interacted with the supernatural, blending their daily lives with the mystical.

The Legend of the Girl, the Horse, and Sericulture

LEGEND: The story of Oshirasama

According to local legend, Oshirasama is the spirit of a young girl who fell in love with a horse. Her father, disapproving of this union, killed the horse, and in grief, the girl climbed onto the horse’s body and ascended to the heavens. This poignant tale symbolizes themes of forbidden love and transformation, and it is said that the girl and the horse became deities, watching over households and sericulture. The legend reflects the deep emotional connections and the sometimes tragic intersections between human desires and societal norms. It also illustrates how such stories serve as moral and cultural lessons, teaching the values and beliefs of the community.

LEGEND: Variations in the tale

There are several variations of the Oshirasama legend, each adding a unique layer to the narrative. In some versions, the girl and the horse are transformed into mulberry trees, which are essential to sericulture, thereby linking the legend directly to the local economy and culture. Other accounts suggest that the girl and horse became stars in the sky, eternally watching over the earth. These variations highlight the flexibility of oral traditions and how they adapt to convey different messages or emphasize particular aspects of the culture and environment.

Tono Denshouen, 遠野 伝承園 - panoramio (2) - Denshoen, Photos from Panoramio
“Tono Denshouen, 遠野 伝承園 – panoramio (2)” (Denshoen, Photos from Panoramio) by z tanuki, CC BY 3.0, source, via Wikimedia Commons

Understanding the Physical Form: Mulberry Wood and Layered Cloth

FACT: The Oshirasama figures

Oshirasama figures are typically crafted from mulberry wood, a material closely linked to sericulture, as mulberry leaves are the primary food source for silkworms. These figures are often draped in layers of cloth, representing the layered nature of tradition and the protective role of the deity. Each household in Tōno traditionally keeps these figures as guardians of the home. The use of mulberry wood is not just symbolic but also practical, as it connects the physical representation of the deity with the agricultural practices that sustain the community. The cloth layers, often added by family members over generations, serve as a tangible record of the family’s history and prayers.

Oshirasama as Protectors of the Household, Agriculture, and Eyesight

LEGEND: The protective powers

Local tradition holds that Oshirasama serves as a protector of households, ensuring prosperity and safety. The deity is also believed to oversee agriculture, particularly sericulture, and is invoked for the protection of eyesight. Rituals involving the Oshirasama figures often include prayers for these aspects of life, reflecting the deity’s multifaceted role in the community. The belief in Oshirasama’s protective powers is deeply ingrained in the local culture, and the rituals associated with the deity are seen as essential to maintaining harmony and balance in daily life.

Tono Denshouen, 遠野 伝承園 - panoramio (8) - Denshoen, Photos from Panoramio
“Tono Denshouen, 遠野 伝承園 – panoramio (8)” (Denshoen, Photos from Panoramio) by z tanuki, CC BY 3.0, source, via Wikimedia Commons

The Living Faith: Rituals and the Oshira-Asobase Ceremony

FACT: Ritual practices

In Tōno, rituals dedicated to Oshirasama are a vibrant part of local culture. The Oshira-Asobase ceremony is a notable event where community members gather to honor the deity. During this ceremony, participants offer cloths to the Oshirasama figures, symbolizing prayers and wishes for the coming year. This practice underscores the enduring connection between the people of Tōno and their spiritual heritage. The ceremony is not only a religious observance but also a social event that strengthens community bonds and reaffirms shared cultural values.

FACT: The significance of offerings

The offerings made during the Oshira-Asobase ceremony are rich in symbolism. The cloths, often brightly colored, represent the hopes and aspirations of the individuals and families who present them. Each offering is a personal gesture, yet collectively, they form a tapestry of community faith and continuity. The act of offering is a way for participants to engage with their history and express gratitude and hope for the future.

Visiting Tōno Denshō-en and the Oshirado Hall

FACT: Where to see Oshirasama figures

Visitors to Tōno can explore the rich folklore of the area at Tōno Denshō-en, a folk museum that houses the Oshirado Hall. This hall displays around 1,000 Oshirasama figurines, providing a tangible connection to the legend and its cultural significance. The museum offers insights into the traditions and beliefs surrounding Oshirasama, making it a must-visit for those interested in Japanese folklore. The sheer number of figures on display is a testament to the enduring importance of Oshirasama in the local culture, and the museum provides a comprehensive overview of the deity’s role in Tōno’s folklore.

Nearby Guide

Access

  • JR Tōno Station (Tōno) — The nearest railway station to Denshōen Park, where the Oshira-do hall is located, is JR Tōno Station. From the station, it’s approximately a 15-minute drive to the park. details

Nearby sights

  • Denshōen Park (Tōno) — Denshōen Park houses the Oshira-do hall, which displays about 1,000 Oshirasama figurines. Visitors can participate in the tradition of placing their own prayer cloths on an Oshirasama. details

Where to eat

  • Wanko Soba (Morioka) — A traditional dish from Morioka, consisting of small servings of soba noodles served in quick succession until the diner covers the bowl with a lid. details
Locator map of Japan: Tōno, Iwate
Legend site: Tōno, Iwate — Source: Map of Japan with highlight on 03 Iwate prefecture.svg; Map: Lincun, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Related on JAPAN ESSENCE: Oshirasama: Exploring the Tragic Horse-and-Girl Legend in Tōno, Iwate | Discover the Legend of Konaki-Jijii at Tokushima’s Oboke Gorge

Sources

To explore further, visit Onigawara Experience for hands-on onigawara experiences in Japan and Zenkei (禅景) for Zen-inspired onigawara art.

About the author

JAPAN ESSENCE Editorial Team
Our mission is to bring you Japan’s legends, myths, festivals and living traditions, through both historical fact and the stories passed down over generations.

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