Guide
Yaegaki Shrine is a sacred site located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture. It is deeply connected to the myth of Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Princess Kushinadahime, making it a premier destination for those seeking 'Enmusubi' (the blessing of matchmaking and good connections). The shrine grounds are filled with elements that evoke the world of ancient myths, such as the mystical Kagami-no-ike (Mirror Pond) and the Meoto Sugi (Married Couple Cedars), which symbolize eternal love.
The history of this shrine is ancient. According to legend, when Susanoo-no-Mikoto defeated the Yamata-no-Orochi, he built a protective enclosure called 'Yaegaki' around a large cedar tree to hide Princess Inada from danger. The current main shrine building dates back to the mid-Edo period, while the worship hall was rebuilt in 1964. The shrine also houses an Important Cultural Property: a painted deity figure (Ita-e Choshoku Shinzo) believed to date from the Muromachi period. This site serves as a living monument to one of Japan's most significant mythological episodes.
Deep within the shrine grounds lies the 'Oku-no-in' (Inner Sanctuary), which houses the sacred Kagami-no-ike Pond. This pond is said to be the place where Princess Inada hid, reflecting her image like a mirror. Visitors are also drawn to the 'Meoto Sugi' (Married Couple Cedars), where two trees have merged into one, and the 'Meoto Tsubaki' (Married Couple Camellias), both of which are powerful symbols of inseparable love and devotion. These natural wonders allow visitors to feel a tangible connection to the mythical past.
While the shrine maintains a sacred atmosphere year-round, certain periods offer extraordinary experiences. On May 3rd, the 'Mikagaki Shinji' ritual is held, featuring a procession of a divine palanquin (mikoshi) moving from the main shrine to the Meoto Sugi, recreating the mythical scene. Another major event is the annual festival held on October 20th. We recommend visiting during daylight hours to clearly observe the shimmering surface of Kagami-no-ike and the lush greenery surrounding the sanctuary.
The most famous activity is the 'Zeni Uranai' (Money Fortune) at Kagami-no-ike Pond. To perform this, place a small coin on a thin piece of paper (hanji) and float it on the water. If the paper floats far away, it is said you will find a distant connection; if it sinks quickly, you will find a connection soon. It is recommended to use a 10-yen or 100-yen coin. Legend also says that if a newt crosses over the paper, you are destined for an exceptionally wonderful match.
The area around the shrine is rich in history and nature. Nearby landmarks include the Iu River, the Shimane Prefectural Yakumotatsu Fudoki-no-oka, and the Okada-yama Kofun (ancient burial mound). The area also includes other significant spiritual sites like Mana-i Shrine and Tamaki Shrine, making it a perfect part of a historical sightseeing route through Matsue.