Guida
Kehi Jingu is a historic Shinto shrine located in Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture. Its significance was solidified in the year 702 (Taiho 2) by an imperial decree, which led to the enshrinement of seven deities alongside Izasawake-no-mikoto, including Emperor Chuai, Empress Jingū, Yamato Takeru, and others. One of its most mystical features is the 'Chomeisui' (Long-Life Water), a spring that reportedly gushed from the ground during shrine repairs and has been a site of deep spiritual devotion for over 1,300 years. Today, it remains a cornerstone of spiritual life in the Hokuriku region.
The history of Kehi Jingu is deeply rooted in the imperial decrees of the early 8th century. Among the deities enshrined, Takeuchi no Sukune is renowned as a god of longevity, which connects to the local reverence for the 'Chomeisui' spring. This connection to longevity and divine grace makes the shrine a vital part of the local identity. Furthermore, the shrine serves as a prestigious venue for traditional Shinto wedding ceremonies, preserving ancient customs and passing them down to modern generations.
The most striking features are the majestic shrine architecture and the natural wonder of 'Chomeisui.' The legend of the water erupting during construction adds a layer of mystery to the site. Additionally, the 'Kehi no Nagasai' festival held every September is a must-see event. The festivities begin with the Yoimiya-sai on September 2nd, followed by the Shinkosai on the 3rd, Reitaisai on the 4th, Kojitsusai on the 5th, and the monthly ritual on the 15th. This sequence offers a vivid window into the ritualistic traditions of the region.
We highly recommend visiting in September to witness the 'Kehi no Nagasai' festival, where you can experience the local energy and traditional ceremonies firsthand. For a peaceful experience, visiting during the daytime allows you to stroll through the lush, natural grounds and admire the historical structures while reflecting on the legends of the long-life water.
Kehi Jingu offers various traditional services, including prayers for newborns (Omiyamairi), Shichi-Go-San, warding off evil (Yakubarai), and traffic safety. The shrine is also a prestigious location for Shinto wedding ceremonies. For those seeking specific blessings, the shrine can even arrange for off-site prayers by Shinto priests, demonstrating its deep roots in the community's spiritual life.
Tsuruga City is surrounded by beautiful coastlines and historical sites. After your visit to the shrine, you can explore the nearby scenic areas, enjoying the harmony between historical architecture and the natural beauty of the Fukui coast.
When visiting, please observe standard Shinto etiquette. If you wish to request a formal prayer (Hatsuo-ryo), the fee starts from 6,000 JPY; it is customary to present this amount in a traditional 'Noshibukuro' (decorative envelope). For special ceremonies like weddings, please contact the shrine office in advance. For standard visits and casual prayers, no reservation is required—simply visit the shrine office on-site. Please dress comfortably for walking through the grounds.