Wishing for Good Health and Fortune at Nara’s Omiwa Shrine: The Traditional "Chinowa-kuguri" Ritual

Thank you very much for always choosing GUTS-MAN!

In today’s blog, we would like to introduce a wonderful summer tradition from our local area in Nara.

1. Introducing Omiwa Shrine

—One of Japan’s Oldest Shinto Shrines, Where the Mountain Itself Is a Deity—

Omiwa Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. Unlike typical Shinto shrines, it does not have a "Honden" (the main hall where the deity is usually housed). Instead, it preserves the ancient Japanese tradition of nature worship, where Mount Miwa—the mountain standing behind the shrine—is directly revered as the sacred deity.

2. What Is "Chinowa-kuguri"?

—A Traditional Ritual to "Detox" both Mind and Body—

In our daily lives, we all carry a build-up of fatigue, stress, and negative energy (known as kegare or spiritual impurities) without even realizing it.

"Chinowa-kuguri" is a ritual where we pass through a large, sacred ring woven from thatch grass in a "figure-eight" pattern. By doing so, we cleanse ourselves of the fatigue and bad luck accumulated during the first half of the year (January to June), praying for excellent health and strength for the remaining half.

It is a beautiful custom unique to Omiwa Shrine and Mount Miwa, reflecting the ancient wisdom of embracing the vitality of nature to rejuvenate ourselves.

3. Traditional Summer Wisdom and the GUTS-MAN Spirit

—The Shared Goal of Surviving the Hot Summer with Ultimate Resilience—

Summer in Japan is notoriously hot and humid. Historically, people prayed to deities and renewed their minds and bodies to get through this challenging season.

Today, our goal remains the same. Staying healthy and managing our physical condition during the summer is absolutely essential, especially for those who work hard every day.

We believe that staying energetic and healthy during the hot summer months starts from the ground up—with proper care for your feet.

GUTS-MAN socks were specially created to support the feet of hard workers who sweat on demanding job sites and members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces.

Boasting ultimate durability to withstand even 40-kilometer heavy marches, our specialized "TABI" (split-toe) socks keep your feet incredibly dry, comfortable, and powerfully supported throughout the relentless summer heat.

【TS】TABI Pile knit Strong Socks -Buy 3pairs, get 15% off- – GUTS-MAN

With your feet firmly supported by GUTS-MAN, let’s take solid steps forward, pass through the sacred Chinowa ring, and conquer this summer in perfect health!

📌 A Note for Visitors to Nara: Although the early summer "Chinowa-kuguri" ritual has concluded for the season, Omiwa Shrine is a magnificent place to visit year-round. If you ever travel to Nara, we highly recommend stopping by Omiwa Shrine to experience its sacred atmosphere!

We wish you all healthy, active, and wonderful days ahead. GUTS-MAN is always here to support you and your feet, cheering you on as you work hard through the summer!

Thank you so much for reading to the end.