Fukashi Shrine

Fukashi Shrine, nestled in the heart of Matsumoto city in Nagano Prefecture, was established in 1339 by Sadamune Ogasawara, the local warlord and first ruler of Shinano province. Originally named Miyamura Daimyojin, the shrine was built as a gesture of gratitude following the 1333 Siege of Kamakura, when Emperor Go-Daigo seized control from the Minamoto shogunate. The shrine takes its current name from the old castle town of Fukashi, which later became modern Matsumoto.

The shrine holds unique significance as it honors two distinct Shinto deities within its two-chambered main hall. The right chamber enshrines Takeminakatatomi-no-mikoto (also known as Suwa-myojin), the deity of wind, water, agriculture, and warfare. The left chamber is dedicated to Tenjin (Sugawara-no-michizane), the deity of scholarship, making it a popular destination for students seeking academic success. This dual dedication reflects both the region's historical martial importance and its cultural emphasis on learning.

Visitors can explore the shrine's spacious grounds, which maintain a serene atmosphere despite the downtown location. Notable features include brightly painted carvings under the eaves near the entrance gate, impressive guardian lion statues, a resting bull statue, and the ornate main prayer hall decorated in vivid colors. The Kagura-den serves as the performance hall for sacred Kagura dances and ritual ceremonies.

During summer, the shrine hosts the lively Tenjin Festival on July 24th, when 18 traditional wooden floats (butai or mikoshi) from surrounding neighborhoods gather at the shrine in a colorful celebration. Visitors interested in collecting goshuin (shrine stamps) can obtain two types: one from Fukashi Shrine itself (handwritten) and another from the Fuji Sengen Shrine branch located on the grounds.

The shrine is approximately ten to fifteen minutes' walk east of Matsumoto Station. From the station, head east along Agata-no-mori street, then turn south at the Miyamura-machi traffic signal near the Performing Arts Centre. The shrine is situated next to the Matsumoto City Museum of Art and the Performing Arts Centre. Public buses including the Town Sneaker, Shin-Asama Line, Nakayama Line, Namiyanagi Danchi Line, and Kita-Shinai Line stop at the Shimin Geijutsukan (Performing Arts Centre) bus stop, providing convenient access.