This is the Motoshiro-cho Toshogu Shrine (Hikima Castle Ruins) located in Chuo Ward, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture.
Originally, this site was apparently the location of Hikima Castle. And, coincidentally, this place has connections to two great figures who ruled Japan.
One is Toyotomi Hideyoshi, currently featured in the historical drama "Toyotomi Brothers." Toyotomi Hideyoshi (then known as Kinoshita Tokichiro), who was born into a farming family, visited this place at the age of 16 and received his chance to become a samurai.
The other is Tokugawa Ieyasu. Ieyasu initially had Hikima Castle opened up and entered it, and then apparently oversaw the construction of Hamamatsu Castle. This site is also known as the "Tokugawa Ieyasu Residence Site."
The Toshogu Shrine is a small place, but it may hold a very strong power.
I encourage you all to take a stroll and visit it along with Hamamatsu Castle.
June 12, 2026
I visited because it was within walking distance of Hamamatsu Castle.
Motoshirocho Toshogu Shrine is a shrine in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu.
Built on the site of Hikuma Castle, which Ieyasu used as his base before Hamamatsu Castle, it is known as a powerful "power spot for career advancement" due to its connection to Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who later became rulers of Japan.
History and Origin of Motoshirocho Toshogu Shrine
Hikuma Castle Site: In 1568, Tokugawa Ieyasu attacked and captured Hikuma Castle, a base of the Imagawa clan, and entered the castle. He then expanded the castle grounds and built Hamamatsu Castle, solidifying the foundation for his unification of Japan.
Two Rulers: It is famous not only as the place where the young Tokugawa Ieyasu visited, but also as the place where Toyotomi Hideyoshi, the future ruler of Japan, first sought employment. Therefore, it remains popular today as a place that guided two great figures.
Founded: Established in 1886 (Meiji 19) on the site of Hikuma Castle by Inoue Enryo and others, the former lord of Hamamatsu Castle.
Benefits and Highlights: Prayer for Success and Good Fortune: This is a power spot where you can receive blessings for the success of two great figures, Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
Three-Leaf Aoi Crest: The Tokugawa family crest, the "three-leaf hollyhock," can be seen on the doors and roof of the shrine.
Historical Monument: Next to the stone torii gate is a stone monument inscribed with "Hikuma Castle Ruins," allowing you to feel the breath of history.
Motoshiro-cho Toshogu Shrine is located within walking distance of the current Hamamatsu Castle Park (Hamamatsu Castle).
I visited Hamamatsu Castle for sightseeing and prayers♪ It's a power spot for career advancement, associated with Tokugawa Ieyasu and Tokugawa Hideyoshi♡ I don't have such desires anymore (^^;) but ambition is important! I prayed for good health first♪(´ε｀ ) There are about 130 Toshogu shrines throughout Japan. This one is located on the site of Hikuma Castle! It was the castle of Imagawa retainer Inoo Tsurataku, and after his death, the female castle lord Odatsunokata Tsubakihime ignored the Tokugawa's surrender demands and fought to the end until she died in battle... She was related to Ieyasu's wife, Sena-dono, as she was originally the daughter of an Imagawa retainer... She was given a respectful burial m(__)m People in that era had it tough... It seems that you can't get a goshuin (shrine stamp) unless there is a festival, as it is unmanned... I was able to get a Hikuma Castle stamp at the castle stamp office before the approach to the shrine! Take care
This is a truly memorable place, known as the birthplace of two great rulers, Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Upon entering the grounds, you'll first encounter the tranquil shrine building. While not flashy, its presence, evoking a sense of historical weight, naturally lifts your spirits.
Particularly striking are the bronze statues of Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, placed side by side. Both are depicted in their younger days, clearly conveying the story of how they rose to power throughout Japan. The explanatory boards are well-organized, and learning that Ieyasu and Hideyoshi shared a common past and present in the same place made history feel even more personal.
As the information boards state, this place is also known as a power spot for career advancement and good fortune, so it's no wonder so many people stop by to take photos with the statues. Another positive aspect is the quiet, peaceful atmosphere, which is a welcome relief from the overly touristy surroundings.
The grounds are surrounded by trees, making strolling around pleasant on sunny days. Even if you're not a history buff, this is a place you'll enjoy. If you're visiting the Hamamatsu Castle area, this is a spot you should definitely stop by.
I felt it was a place that would leave you feeling positive if you were "about to start something new" or "at a turning point."
