Guide
Kehi Jingu is a highly significant historical shrine located in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture. Its history was profoundly shaped in the year 702 (the second year of the Taiho era) by an imperial decree from Emperor Monmu. This decree led to the enshrining of seven distinct deities, including Izasa-wake no Mikoto, Emperor Chikai, Empress Jingū, Yamato Takeru, Emperor Oji, Tamahime no Mikoto, and Takeuchi no Sukune no Mikoto. One of the most captivating features of the shrine is the 'Chomeisui' (Long-Life Water). According to legend, this spring suddenly erupted during the renovation of the shrine grounds, and it has been a site of deep devotion for over 1,300 years. Today, it remains a major destination for those seeking spiritual connection and historical insight.
The shrine's identity is deeply rooted in its imperial connections. The consolidation of the seven deities in 702 AD marked a pivotal moment in its history. Notably, one of the enshrined deities, Takeuchi no Sukune, is celebrated as a god of longevity. This connection is reflected in the 'Chomeisui' spring, which continues to be a vital part of local spiritual life. Furthermore, Kehi Jingu serves as a prestigious venue for traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies, playing a crucial role in preserving and passing down the cultural and ritual traditions of the region to the modern era.
The primary attractions are the majestic shrine architecture and the sacred 'Chomeisui' spring. The sight of the historic buildings provides a tangible sense of the passage of time. Another must-see event is the 'Kehi no Nagasai' festival held every September. This-series of rituals begins with the Yoimiya-sai (Eve Festival) on September 2nd, followed by the Shinkosai (Procession) on the 3rd, the Reitaisai (Grand Festival) on the 4th, the Kojitsusai on the 5th, and the Monthly Festival on the 15th. Witnessing these ceremonies offers a rare glimpse into the living traditions of the region.
The best time to visit is during the 'Kehi no Nagasai' festival in September. This period allows visitors to experience the local energy and the grandeur of traditional Shinto rituals firsthand. For a more peaceful experience, we recommend visiting during the daytime. Walking through the lush, natural grounds during daylight hours allows you to appreciate the historical architecture and reflect on the legends of the sacred spring.
Kehi Jingu offers various traditional services, including daily prayers for milestones such as Shichi-Go-San, much older children's blessings, protection from misfortune, and traffic safety. The shrine is also a renowned venue for traditional Shinto weddings. For those interested in specific blessings, the shrine offers various forms of prayer, and some services can even be requested through local practitioners, showcasing its deep roots in the community.
The surrounding Tsuruga area is rich with scenic beauty, featuring stunning coastlines and historical landmarks. Visitors can easily combine a trip to Kehi Jingu with sightseeing in the nearby coastal areas to enjoy the beautiful landscapes and historical architecture of Fukui.
When visiting, please observe standard Shinto etiquette. For those wishing to request a formal prayer (Gokito), the fee starts from 6,000 JPY. It is customary to present this amount in a traditional 'Noshibukuro' (decorative envelope). For special ceremonies like Shinto weddings, please contact the shrine office in advance. For standard visits and casual prayers, no reservation is required, and you may visit the shrine office directly. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes to navigate the grounds easily.