⛩️ Shiwa Hiko Shrine · Shiogama Shrine

Shiogama Shrine is located on a high platform overlooking the expansive Shiogama Bay and is known as the Ichinomiya (first shrine) of Mutsu Province. The exact date of its construction is unknown, but based on documents from the early Heian period, it is believed to have existed before the Nara period. In 2002, several buildings, including the main hall, worship hall, and the four-legged gate (Karamon), were designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. The shrine's structure, consisting of the left and right worship halls, is quite rare. The main deity of the auxiliary shrine is Shio-tsuchi-no-Oji, while the left hall enshrines Takemikazuchi-no-Kami, and the right hall is dedicated to Kezunomikoto. In addition to the buildings, the cherry blossoms known as Shiogama Sakura are also worth seeing. An ancient tree that was mentioned in the waka poetry of Emperor Horikawa also appears in the shrine's emblem. Shibahiko Shrine is recorded in the ancient Japanese text "Engishiki" and has a long history. During the Meiji period, it was relocated from the Iwakiri area of Sendai City to the grounds of Shiogama Shrine. Exiting the shrine gate and heading towards the city, one can enjoy a view of the vast Shiogama Bay, known as Chigauura. The "Shiogama Port Festival" is held on the third Monday of July, where the portable shrines of both Shibahiko Shrine and Shiogama Shrine parade through the city and on the sea, making it a grand festival in the Tohoku region. At the event, one can witness the lively scene of people carrying portable shrines weighing about one ton, along with a magnificent land parade that elevates the atmosphere of the entire city to its peak.

The miraculous Ichinomiya of Mutsu Province offers blessings. From the high ground where the shrine is located, one can overlook Shiogama Bay. The Shiogama Port Festival, which fills the entire city with vitality, is a major highlight.