Guida
Kuzuryu Jinja Shingu is a sacred shrine located in Hakone Town, Kanagawa Prefecture. It enshrines Kuzuryu Okami, the legendary deity known as the guardian of Lake Ashi. The shrine is characterized by its striking vermilion-colored architecture, which stands out beautifully against the natural landscape. Visitors come here to seek divine blessings for wealth, good fortune, and matchmaking (enmusubi), making it a significant spiritual destination in the Hakone area.
Since ancient times, it has been believed that the Kuzuryu (Nine-Headed Dragon) resides in these waters as the protector of Lake Ashi. Kuzuryu Okami is revered as a powerful deity who governs nature and water. The shrine's history is deeply intertwined with the traditions of the Hakone region, serving as a cornerstone of local faith. The Kagura-den (sacred dance hall) hosts various rituals, such as the Setsubun festival and summer grand festivals, which help preserve the cultural heritage and spiritual traditions of the community.
The most striking feature of Kuzuryu Jinja Shingu is its vibrant vermilion-colored shrine buildings. The brilliant colors harmonize perfectly with the blue of Lake Ashi and the surrounding greenery, creating a breathtaking view. Another artistic highlight is the ceiling of the Kagura-den, which features a magnificent ink painting of the 'Kuzuryu' dragon by the master artist Yoshiyuki Nakano. Additionally, the nearby Treasure House (Hozondo) offers a chance to explore historical artifacts and documents related to the shrine's long history.
While the shrine grounds are open 24 hours a day, the availability of formal prayers (gokito), amulets, and specific rituals depends on the time. You can visit any time of year, but visiting during the New Year, the Setsubun festival, or the summer grand festivals allows you to experience the intense energy of traditional Shinto rituals. The bright daylight hours are ideal for photography, as the sunlight enhances the contrast between the vermilion shrine, the blue sky, and the lush green forest.
Visitors can receive formal prayers (gokito) from Kuzuryu Okami for specific wishes such as wealth, good luck, or matchmaking. There is also a dedicated area for offering talismans (ofuda) to express gratitude. Please note that when making offerings, you should not bring items in metal, ceramic, or glass containers. For a more profound spiritual experience, many visitors perform 'Ryosha-mairi,' a ritual of visiting both this shrine and the adjacent Hakone Shrine to deepen their connection to the local deities.
Kuzuryu Jinja Shingu is located right next to Hakone Shrine, one of Hakone's most famous landmarks. The nearby Hakone Shrine features a Treasure House where visitors (ages 13 and older) can view precious relics for a small fee. Furthermore, the 'Hon-gu' (main shrine) of Kuzuryu Jinja is located on the shores of Lake Ashi, accessible via boat or walking paths. The area is a beautiful, nature-rich part of the Hakone sightseeing route.
When visiting, please observe standard Shinto shrine etiquette. Payments for amulets, Goshuin (stamps), or formal prayers are primarily handled in cash. If you plan to offer an ofuda, ensure it is not in a metal, ceramic, or glass case. While the grounds are well-maintained, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Basic information and signage are available in the surrounding tourist areas, making it a relatively accessible destination for international visitors.