Name

  • Miyoshi Ōkami (三吉霊神)

  • Variant writings: Miyoshi Reijin (三吉霊神), Miyoshi Ōkami (三吉大神)

Identity

Miyoshi Ōkami (三吉霊神, Miyoshi no ōkami) is a local Shintō deity originating in the Akita region (秋田), closely associated with Mount Taihei (Taihei-zan, 太平山). Depending on the shrine and historical documents, the deity appears under two main written forms: 三吉霊神 and 三吉大神.

Unlike major kami featured prominently in the Kojiki or Nihon Shoki, Miyoshi Ōkami belongs to a deeply rooted regional cult, shaped by local history, geography, and popular belief rather than by a single canonical myth.

Mythological role

Miyoshi Ōkami is primarily regarded as a kami of strength and of challenge and combat. His blessings (go-rieki, 御利益) are associated with victory, success, and prosperity in undertakings.

In a more practical, down-to-earth interpretation, he is an energetic protector—a deity invoked when one needs to endure hardship, overcome obstacles, and “push through” difficult moments.

Famous myth

There is no single, widely standardized myth comparable to those of Amaterasu or Susanoo. Instead, Miyoshi Ōkami is defined by a collection of traditions centered on Mount Taihei and the spread of its shrine network, particularly Taiheizan Miyoshi Shrine (太平山三吉神社).

Across regions and periods, these traditions emphasize themes of protection, power, and the ability to ward off misfortune, highlighting the deity’s role as a forceful guardian.

Worship

Miyoshi Ōkami is mainly worshipped in northern Japan, especially in Akita and in areas where the cult of Taiheizan spread. He is commonly prayed to for:

  • victory and success (勝利成功, shōri seikō);

  • success in difficult challenges (competitions, exams, demanding projects);

  • prosperity of business and activities (事業繁栄, jigyō han’ei).

In some shrines, Miyoshi Ōkami is enshrined together with Ōkuninushi / Ōnamuchi (大己貴大神) and Sukuna-hikona (少彦名大神), forming a trio associated with protection, development, and prosperity.

Symbolism

Miyoshi Ōkami embodies what could be called “spiritual strength”: power, victory, success, and active protection. His strong association with Mount Taihei reinforces the image of a force that is both stable and massive, yet capable of decisive action when needed.