Iwaki-san Jinja Shrine

Overview

Iwaki-san Jinja Shrine sits on the southeastern foot of Mount Iwaki in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, and is revered as the guardian shrine of the entire Tsugaru region. Mount Iwaki, a majestic, solitary peak rising 1,625 meters, has captivated people with its commanding view of the Tsugaru Plain since ancient times. With Mount Iwaki as its sacred mountain, Iwaki-san Jinja Shrine has long been a center of faith for locals, serving as the guardian deity of agriculture and fishing, and the god of Tsugaru's development. The shrine boasts a long history; the oldest account dates its founding to 780 AD (Houki 11). Later, in 800 AD (Enryaku 19), Sakanoe Tamuramaro rebuilt the shrine on the mountaintop and established a lower shrine (Oriinomiya) in the Juyokochi district. Following a divine oracle, this lower shrine was relocated to Hyakutake in the southeastern foothills of Mount Iwaki, becoming Hyakutakuji Temple, the precursor to the present-day Iwaki-san Jinja Shrine. During the Edo period, the shrine became the guardian shrine of the Tsugaru clan, with successive feudal lords constructing its buildings. The current gate tower, worship hall, and main hall strongly reflect the architectural style of that era and are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Iwaki-san Jinja Shrine is also known as a hiking trail, leading to the Okumiya (inner shrine) at the summit. Every year, on the last day of the 7th month of the lunar calendar, a traditional festival called "Oyama Sankei" is held. This festival sees mountain priests and parishioners from throughout the Tsugaru region ascending the approximately 8km trail over four hours, carrying sacred streamers and banners – a testament to the enduring faith and traditions of the region. Iwaki-san Jinja Shrine is a power spot where you can feel the power of nature and history. Why not refresh your mind and body while gazing upon the magnificent Mount Iwaki?