What is the difference between the three Tsutsukowake shrines?

Tsutsukowake Shrine actually refers to a complex of three separate shrines historically known as the Chikatsu Three Shrines: Baba Tsutsukowake Shrine, Yatsuki Tsutsukowake Shrine, and Shimomiya Chikatsu Shrine. All three shrines share the Tsutsukowake name and are located in the Tanagura area of Fukushima Prefecture. Baba Tsutsukowake Shrine is generally considered the main shrine and holds the designation as the ichinomiya (highest-ranking shrine) of the former Mutsu Province. Each shrine maintains its own grounds and can be visited separately, though they are relatively close to each other.

What deities are enshrined at Tsutsukowake Shrine?

The shrine enshrines two important figures from Japanese mythology: Ajisuki Takahikone and Yamato Takeru. Yamato Takeru was a legendary imperial prince known for his military campaigns in eastern Japan, which connects the shrine to the region's ancient history. The shrine is believed to provide blessings for bountiful harvests, prosperous business, road safety, matchmaking, and longevity. Two sacred cedar trees standing close together on the grounds are particularly associated with blessings for matchmaking and long life.

Are there any important cultural treasures at the shrine?

Yes, Tsutsukowake Shrine houses two swords that are designated as National Important Cultural Properties. These swords were donated by Yoshiie Minamoto during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), making them significant historical artifacts. The shrine grounds also feature ancient cedar trees that are over 100 years old, adding to the site's cultural and natural heritage. The architecture includes relocated buildings from the original shrine site where Tanagura Castle once stood.

Is admission charged to visit Tsutsukowake Shrine?

No, entry to Tsutsukowake Shrine grounds is free of charge, which is typical of most Shinto shrines throughout Japan. Visitors can freely explore the shrine precincts, view the ancient cedar trees, and pay respects at the worship hall without purchasing tickets. Parking is available in front of the torii gate along the national highway at no cost. However, visitors should be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and follow proper shrine etiquette during their visit.

How long does a typical visit to Tsutsukowake Shrine take?

A typical visit to Tsutsukowake Shrine takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. This allows time to walk through the grounds, admire the ancient cedar trees, appreciate the vermilion-colored shrine gate and worship hall, and offer prayers. The shrine grounds are not particularly large, making it manageable for a brief stop. Visitors interested in exploring all three shrines in the Tsutsukowake complex should plan for additional travel time between locations, as they are separate sites within the Tanagura area.

Fukushima

Yatsuki Tsutsukowake Shrine, Tanagura

4.2 (11)Shinto ShrinePlace Of WorshipAssociation Or OrganizationPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Tsutsukowake Shrine stands as the ichinomiya of Mutsu Province, located in Tanagura, Fukushima Prefecture. According to legend, it was founded in 807 by the samurai warrior Tamuramaro Sakanoue. The shrine's name actually refers to a complex of three shrines historically known as the Chikatsu Three Shrines: Baba Tsutsukowake Shrine, Yatsuki Tsutsukowake Shrine, and Shimomiya Chikatsu Shrine.

The shrine enshrines Ajisuki Takahikone and Yamato Takeru, connecting it to ancient Japanese mythology and the legendary imperial prince's conquest of the northeastern regions. The shrine's location has changed throughout history; in 1624, the castle master Nagashige Niwa moved the shrine to its present location in order to build Tanagura Castle. Among its treasures are two swords designated as National Important Cultural Properties, donated by Yoshiie Minamoto during the Kamakura period.

Visitors to the shrine grounds will find well-maintained precincts featuring ancient cedar trees over 100 years old. The shrine gate and worship hall display a calm vermilion color that gives them a mysterious air. The Main Hall was relocated from the previous site where Tanagura Castle once stood, while the Hai-den Hall employs special architectural styles that create a solemn atmosphere. Two sacred cedar trees that stand close together are believed to house gods of matchmaking and longevity, and the shrine is said to grant blessings for bountiful harvests, prosperous business, and road safety.

The shrine is accessible from multiple directions. From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Shinshirakawa Station (approximately 85 minutes), then transfer to JR Bus Kanto to Iwaki Tanagura Station (approximately 40 minutes). Alternatively, visitors can reach Iwaki Tanagura Station from Mito via the JR Suigun Line in about 120 minutes, or from Koriyama in approximately 60 minutes. By car, the shrine is roughly a 40-minute drive from Shirakawa Interchange on the Tohoku Highway. Parking is available in front of the torii gate along the national highway. Entry to the shrine grounds is free of charge, following the typical practice of Shinto shrines in Japan.

Phone

+81 247-33-3505