Samukawa Jinja

Map

History & Origins

Records of offerings from the imperial court date from about 1,600 years ago, in the reign of Emperor Yuryaku, and it has long been deeply revered as the Ichinomiya of Sagami Province. During the era of warrior rule it drew the devotion of military leaders, and the Tokugawa shogunate granted it shrine lands. It has long been known across Japan as a deity that wards off ill-omened directions.

Highlights

The grounds beyond the main gate are neatly kept, and the treasure hall holds valuable items including votive offerings. The shrine is also said to stand at the crossing of ley lines, and it has a distinctive sacred atmosphere. Its New Year visit is known as one of the largest in the Kanto region.

Visitor Guide

It is about a 5-minute walk from Miyayama Station on the JR Sagami Line. Reception for formal ceremonial prayers is normally open 8:00-17:00, and the number of such prayers each year is said to be among the highest in Japan. Allow about 30 minutes to 1 hour for worship alone.

Best Season

The year-end and New Year period draws particularly many worshippers. The Kounomachi festival in May and the Hamaori-sai festival in July are also worth seeing as traditional Sagami festivals.

Blessings

Annual Events

• September

  Reitaisai (Grand Annual Festival)

  A grand annual festival held on September 20. It is one of the most important annual festivals of Samukawa Jinja.

• July

  Hamaori Sai (Beach Descent Festival)

  A traditional festival of the first shrine of Sagami Province, held on the third Monday of July (Marine Day). Portable shrines are carried to the beach at Chigasaki.

Travel Plan

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