⛩️ Mikagami Shrine彌彦神社

Yahiko Shrine is the largest shrine in Niigata and is also the Echu Ichinomiya with a history of over 2400 years. According to legend, the great-grandson of Amaterasu Omikami, Kagu-yama no Mikoto, opened up the Echigo Province and was later buried on Yahiko Mountain, leading to the establishment of the shrine in the area. Today it is known as "Yahiko," but in ancient records, it was referred to as "Iyahiko Shrine," called "iyahiko." The historical shrine is also mentioned in the historical text "Manyoshu," which includes the lines "Iyahiko, surrounded by thin clouds, sacred and solemn, with fine rain falling gently," and it is deeply revered by the people. Within the shrine's grounds, there are ancient trees over four hundred years old, and the air is filled with a spiritual aura. The current worship hall was designed by Ito Chuta, who also designed Meiji Shrine, and was rebuilt in Taisho 5 (1916). Additionally, the method of worship here is different from other shrines, following the practice of "two bows, four claps, and one bow," so please pay special attention to this. At the summit of Yahiko Mountain, there is a shrine dedicated to Kagu-yama no Mikoto and his consort, which is a very popular spot for forming connections. Yahiko Mountain stands at 634 meters high, and you can take a cable car from the foot of the mountain to reach the top. The torii gate, standing beautifully in the fields 3 kilometers away, is also quite stunning.

The worship method is "two bows, four claps, and one bow." The large torii gate, located 3 kilometers away, is known as Japan's number one hinoki wood torii and is definitely worth seeing. The charming town in front of the shrine is famous for its curry beans, which are a must-buy souvenir. At the summit of Mount Miya, there is a shrine known for granting wishes for relationships. Every year on July 25th, one of Japan's three major lantern festivals is held. If you walk about 10 minutes along the road behind the shrine, you will find the station for the Miya-san cable car.