Morito Daimyojin Shrine stands on the southern cape of Morito Beach in Hayama, Kanagawa Prefecture, occupying a small peninsula that separates Morito Beach from Manase Beach. Founded in 1180 by Minamoto no Yoritomo, the first Kamakura shogun, the shrine was established by inviting a spirit from Mishima Myojin, present-day Mishima Taisha Shrine in Shizuoka Prefecture. The main hall visible today was rebuilt during the 16th-17th centuries and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Hayama. During the Kamakura period, this site served as one of seven sacred purification spots known as nanasebarai, where prayers were held to prevent disasters, promote good health, and welcome favorable weather.
The shrine is dedicated to two deities, Oyamatsumi-no-mikoto and Kotoshironushi-no-mikoto, and is believed to bestow blessings for good fortune, good health, and easy childbirth. Within the grounds stands a towering sacred juniper tree approximately 800 years old, designated as one of Kanagawa's 100 Famous Trees and a natural monument by Hayama. Legend states the tree sprouted from a seed that flew from Mishima Taisha when Yoritomo came to worship.
Visitors can see tiny Najima Island where a small red torii gate stands offshore, creating a view reminiscent of Miyajima's famous Itsukushima Shrine. On clear days, particularly in winter, both Enoshima Island and Mount Fuji are visible from the grounds. The red Misogi Bridge crosses the Morito River to connect the shrine with the coastal area, and a rocky beach behind the shrine offers space for picnics or seaside relaxation. The annual shrine festival takes place on September 8, believed to be the deity's birthday and the day Yoritomo received permission from Mishima Taisha to build the shrine.
From Zushi Station on the JR Yokosuka Line or Zushi-Hayama Station on the Keikyu Zushi Line, take the number 12 Keihin Kyuko bus bound for Hayama Isshiki and alight at Morito Shrine bus stop after approximately 15 minutes. For drivers, the shrine is a 20-minute drive from Zushi IC, with 105 parking spaces available. Parking is free for the first 30 minutes, then costs ¥220 per 30 minutes from October to June, or ¥550 per 30 minutes from July to September. Entry to the shrine grounds is free.
