⛩️ Kibishin Shrine

Kihei Shrine is said to have been established in 702 and is the chief shrine of Echizen Province along the Hokuriku Road. The Kakuzuka Shrine within its precincts is considered the origin of the name "Tsuruga," and the shrine is locally nicknamed "Aki Shrine." There are four shrine buildings surrounding the main hall: the East Hall, the Main Shrine, the Hira Hall, and the West Hall. The inner and outer worship halls are connected to the main hall via the approach path. The striking vermilion torii gate standing along the approach path is ranked as one of Japan's "Three Great Torii Gates," alongside the torii gates of Nara's Kasuga-taisha and Hiroshima's Itsukushima Shrine. Most of the shrine buildings were rebuilt in later years, but the large torii gate survived the air raids of World War II and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Kihei Shrine is also well-known due to Matsuo Bashō. During his journey while writing the travelogue "Oku no Hosomichi," he visited this shrine and was moved by the moonlight illuminating the white sand in front of the shrine and its origins, leading him to compose the haiku: "Clear moonlight on the white sand path laid out for travelers shines even brighter." A statue of Bashō stands in front of the middle torii gate, with a stone monument inscribed with the aforementioned haiku at its base. Additionally, the "Chōmei Water" that springs forth within the shrine grounds is regarded as divine water blessed by the gods, attracting many worshippers for over 1,300 years.

The vermilion torii gate is listed as one of the "Three Great Torii of Japan," alongside the great torii gates of Nara's Kasuga-taisha and Hiroshima's Itsukushima Shrine. During the "Kihei Nagashi Festival" from September 2 to 15, the area and in front of the shrine are bustling with numerous stalls, creating a lively atmosphere. The "Chomeisui," which has been beloved by the public for over 1300 years, is also a famous energy spot.