Sakuraco Logo
snack box
お菓子の箱について
subscription
pricing
about us
私たちについて
subscribe
購入する
account menu button
Sakuraco Logoaccount menu button
snack box
お菓子の箱について
subscription
pricing
about us
私たちについて
subscribe
購入する
Top StoriesNewsFood & Drink
Categories
Top Stories
News
Food & Drink
search

love shrines

Hakone Shrine and Other Beautiful Love Shrines To See!

Thuy Fang

Thuy Fang

Share:

A torii gate in Hakone.

With their picturesque setting and cultural importance, love shrines like Hakone Shrine symbolize hope and devotion for those seeking romantic blessings in Japan. People here think that when they connect with the gods, it makes them happy and brings love into their lives. And these shrines are also unique and treasured in Japanese history. Join us in exploring the enchantment of love shrines, where faith and love intertwine.

Hakone Shrine (Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture)

With a history spanning over 1200 years, Hakone Shrine is famous for its connection to dragons, samurai, and people journeying along the Tokaido Road. The shrine’s serene atmosphere is inviting and peaceful, surrounded by red lanterns and tall cedar trees. That makes it a must-visit destination.

The shrine first stood on Mount Hakone but then moved to Lake Ashi’s shores in 1667. According to legend, Priest Mangan had set up the shrine and calmed a nine-headed dragon in Lake Ashi. Nowadays, we can see the unique fountain that people believe brings good luck and love to celebrate this event.

Hakone Shrine at night.
Hakone Shrine is on the shore of Lake Ashi. Image via Shutterstock

Furthermore, this location is also a place of worship and remembrance for the talented Minamoto no Yoritomo (1147-1199), the founder of the Shogunate system. According to tales, Minamoto no Yoritomo went to Hakone for help after his defeat in the Battle of Ishibashiyama. Later, when he became a shogun, he supported the shrine.

Notably, the shrine enshrines three Great Gods of Hakone, each representing different aspects. The majestic Heiwa no Torii (Peace Torii Gate) at Hakone Shrine is among them. This historical site is by Lake Ashi’s shore, and many people consider it the most distinctive highlight. This red gate symbolizes the transition from ordinary to sacred and provides a pleasant view of the large lake. Climbing 89 steps behind, it takes you to the main shrine, where people pray for happiness, wealth, safety, and love.

In addition, Hakone Shrine always comes alive with exciting festivals. During Lake Ashinoko Summer Festival week, Shinto celebrations, rituals, and fantastic fireworks make the air feel magical. All in all, it’s a time of joy and wonder at Hakone Shrine!

Ikuta Shrine (Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture)

Ikuta Shrine is a fascinating Shinto sanctuary and possibly one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It was established by Empress Jingu over 1800 years ago to honor Watatsumi, a sea deity. She built the Ikuta Shrine after surviving a challenging journey, thanks to prayers to this god. 

The shrine has a connection to historical events such as the Genpei War. The battle of Ichi-no-Tani made a mark in the forest near Ikuta Shrine. The Ikuta Autumn Festival is a highlight, featuring Noh plays that retell stories from the old Genpei War. These fantastic shows bring history and a festive vibe to the shrine.

The entrance to Ikuta Shrine.
Ikuta Shrine is one of the oldest in the country .Image via Shutterstock

Even though the modern city of Kobe has grown around it, the shrine still stands strong as a symbol of hope and strength. It endured many disasters like wars, earthquakes, and floods yet stayed strong. Ikuta Shrine is a vibrant place where people celebrate love and connections. The goddess Wakahirume-no-Mikoto worshipped at the shrine is associated with bringing people together.

Today, the shrine has become famous for couples seeking blessings for their relationships and marriages. Moreover, it’s crowded with many stalls lining the streets during the New Year festivities. Stalls are also set up within the shrine premises from December 31 to January 3.

Are you looking for some amazing snacks this Valentine’s Day? Check out Sakuraco! Sakuraco delivers traditional Japanese snacks, teas, and sweets from local Japanese makers directly to your door so you can enjoy the latest delicacies directly from Japan!

Izumo Taisha Shrine (Izumo, Shimane Prefecture)

Izumo Taisha, also known as Izumo Oyashiro, is one of Japan’s oldest and most significant Shinto shrines. This sacred site is dedicated to Okuninushi, the deity associated with marriage, relationships, and the creation of Japan. Izumo Taisha has been around since the early 700s. It has a long past with changes during the Kamakura period. Later on, it became a Kanpei-taisha (the most highly-ranked shrine) and got support from the government between 1871 and 1946.

The outside of Izuko Taisha Shrine.
Izumo Taisha Shrine has a treasure hall that has important documents and artifacts on display. Image via Shutterstock

Generally, the shrine undergoes a regular rebuilding process every 60 to 70 years, preserving kami power and architectural techniques. Some buildings in the shrine area are even recognized as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

Also, festivals play a crucial role in Izumo’s cultural calendar. Celebrations like the Imperial Festival and Grand Festival in May and various exciting events in January, February, April, June, and August always attract locals and visitors. In the tenth month of the lunar calendar, there’s a whole month of gods gathering called Kamiarizuki, showing how the shrine is a big part of Japan’s spiritual stories.

Why should I visit spots like Hakone Shrine for Valentine’s Day?  

Overall, going to love shrines like Hakone Shrine on Valentine’s Day is special. You’ll get to enjoy and understand the importance of love and relationships in Japan. The peaceful surroundings and traditions can create a lovely backdrop for celebrating love. These shrines are famous for their link to love and relationships.

As a result, their lively festivals also make them a favorite for people who want to experience culture and connect spiritually. Have you visited any of these love shrines or experienced similar traditions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Enjoy new Japanese sweets, snacks & tea every month

Discover authentic flavors with Sakuraco

Enjoy new Japanese sweets, snacks & tea every month $32.50 USD

Get Sakuraco package

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Articles

An omikuji (paper fortune) tied on a string.

Omikuji: The New Year’s Fortune

Omikuji, which means “sacred lot”, is a popular and traditional way to learn about your fortune in Japan. You can find it at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples nationwide.

December 06, 2024
A priest ringing a bell at midnight during Joya no Kane.

Ring in the New Year: The History of Joya no Kane

Joya no Kane is an important ritual during Japan’s annual Omisoka (New Year’s Eve) celebrations. Japan has practiced this ancient tradition for centuries, carrying a profound Buddhist philosophy.

December 06, 2024

Hokkaido Island: The Best Place for the Winter Holidays!

Hokkaido is the northernmost island of Japan and the most significant island after Honshu. It is surrounded by the Sea of Japan, Okhotsk, and the Pacific Ocean. It is particularly busy during winter. Being so far north and surrounded by water, snowfall is guaranteed yearly. 

November 29, 2024
A New Year's wreath on a front door for the holiday spectacular.

A Holiday Spectacular: Japanese Winter Traditions

Exploring Japanese winter traditions offers inspiration and beauty for those looking to enrich their holiday festivities. Let’s explore what makes this season unique and why these customs deserve a place in your holiday celebrations.

November 27, 2024
Footer background patternFooter background pattern
Sakuraco
Subscription & gifts
PricingUpcoming Month’s BoxPast Month’s Box
Today's Offer
Personal GiftCorporate Gift
Support & Information
FAQContact UsCompare to Bokksu

Be the first to know!

Join our newsletter and receive tasty news and deals

AnIchigo Logobrand.
Copyright © 2024 Sakuraco™. All Rights Reserved.

Accepted Payments

Visa payment availableMastercard payment availableAmerican Express payment availableDiscover payment availablePayPal payment available