Complete Guide to Warei Shrine | A Thorough Explanation from the Head Shrine in Uwajima to Branch Shrines Nationwide
What is Warei Shrine?
Warei Shrine is a shrine located in Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture, and is widely worshipped as the god of industries, particularly fishing. Affectionately known as “Warei-sama,” it is the head shrine of the Warei faith, with over 100 branch shrines throughout Japan, from Kyushu to Kanto, primarily in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions.
Its former shrine rank was Prefectural Shrine, and it is known as a shrine with a rare origin story, having been established when a feudal lord enshrined his chief retainer. The Warei Grand Festival, held every July, is one of the three major festivals of Shikoku and attracts many worshippers.
The Story of Yamabe Seibei Kinyori, the Chief Retainer Who Became a God
Who Was Yamabe Seibei?
The person enshrined at Warei Shrine is a man named Yamabe Seibei Kinyori. He was originally a retainer of Date Masamune, but in 1615 (Genna 1), when Masamune’s eldest son, Date Hidemune, was transferred to the Uwajima Domain, he followed him to Uwajima.
As a chief retainer of the Uwajima Domain, Seibei supported the domain’s administration and demonstrated great skill in expanding industry and stabilizing civil administration. He dedicated himself to numerous projects that laid the foundation for the Uwajima Domain, such as land reclamation, the promotion of fishing, and the development of salt fields, and was a respected chief retainer beloved by the people.
Tragic End and Legend of a Vengeful Spirit
On June 22, 1620 (Genna 6), Seibei fell victim to an unknown assassin’s blade, meeting a tragic end. He was 58 years old. While it is believed that factional disputes within the domain were behind the assassination, the truth remains shrouded in mystery.
Afterward, a series of inexplicable incidents occurred in the Uwajima Domain. A series of tragedies followed, including the mysterious deaths of individuals allegedly involved in Seibei’s assassination, and the deaths of the lord’s children. People feared this was the curse of Seibei’s vengeful spirit and enshrined him as a god to appease it.
From Vengeful Spirit to Guardian Deity of Industry
Initially, Warei Shrine was established to appease a vengeful spirit, but the nature of the faith changed over time. Seibei’s contributions to industrial development during his lifetime were re-evaluated, and he became particularly revered as the god of fishing.
Fishermen from Uwajima spread the Warei faith as they traveled to various locations, and branch shrines were established along the Seto Inland Sea coast, Kyushu, and even the Kanto region. Today, it is believed to offer a wide range of blessings, including business prosperity, traffic safety, and family safety, and is affectionately known as “Warei-sama.”
Warei Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Japan’s Largest Stone Torii Gate
The first thing visitors to Warei Shrine see is the massive stone torii gate standing at the entrance to the grounds. Standing 12 meters tall with pillars approximately 3 meters in diameter, its impressive scale makes it the largest stone torii gate in Japan.
This torii gate was built in 1666 (Kanbun 6), boasting a history of over 350 years. A masterpiece showcasing the pinnacle of stonemasonry techniques of the time, its imposing presence overwhelms visitors. At night, it is illuminated, creating a fantastical atmosphere.
Miyuki Bridge (Taiko Bridge)
After passing through the torii gate, the beautiful Taiko Bridge, “Miyuki Bridge,” spanning the Sukagawa River, appears. Also known as the “Taiko Bridge,” its graceful, gently curving form is striking.
Crossing the Shinko Bridge is said to mark the boundary between the secular world and the sacred realm. The view of the river from the bridge is beautiful, making it a popular spot for many visitors to take photos. During the Warei Grand Festival, the portable shrine can be seen crossing this bridge.
Japan’s Largest Otafuku and Hanataka Masks
As you cross the Shinko Bridge and approach the Zuishinmon Gate, giant Otafuku and Hanataka masks greet visitors on either side. These masks are approximately 4 meters tall, making them the largest masks in Japan.
The Otafuku mask is considered an auspicious symbol that brings good fortune, while the Hanataka mask represents a Tengu (a mythical creature) and is believed to ward off evil. Their unique and powerful expressions have made them one of the symbols of Warei Shrine, and they are also popular as a photogenic spot for social media.
Main Hall and Worship Hall
After passing through the Zuishinmon Gate, the magnificent main hall and worship hall come into view. The current shrine building was rebuilt in 1918 (Taisho 7) and follows the traditional style of shrine architecture.
Various festivals are held throughout the year in the worship hall, and prayers from worshippers are accepted. The main hall enshrines the spirit of Yamaga Seibei Kimiyori, and a solemn atmosphere permeates the area.
Subsidiary Shrines and Auxiliary Shrines
Besides the main hall, several subsidiary shrines and auxiliary shrines are located within the grounds of Warei Shrine. Each enshrines a different deity, attracting worshippers seeking various blessings.
A distinctive feature of Warei Shrine is the large number of shrines related to maritime transport and commerce, such as Inari Shrine, Ebisu Shrine, and Kotohira Shrine. Taking a leisurely stroll through the grounds and visiting each shrine is highly recommended.
Warei Grand Festival | One of Shikoku’s Three Great Festivals
History and Significance of the Warei Grand Festival
Held annually on July 23rd and 24th, the Warei Grand Festival is Uwajima City’s largest festival and is considered one of Shikoku’s three great festivals. This festival originates from June 22nd (lunar calendar), the anniversary of the death of Yamaga Seibei Kimiyori, and boasts a history of over 300 years.
During the festival, the entire city of Uwajima is immersed in the festivities, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors from within and outside the prefecture. It is a grand celebration expressing gratitude to Warei Shrine and praying for a bountiful harvest and a successful fishing season.
Running Ritual
The highlight of the Warei Grand Festival is the “running ritual” held on the night of the 23rd. The sight of hundreds of young people carrying the portable shrine and running simultaneously into the darkened shrine grounds is breathtaking, captivating spectators with its power and energy.
Amidst the flickering light of lanterns, the sight of the portable shrine galloping along to the shouts of the crowd is both fantastical and magnificent. This procession is considered the most important ritual of the Warei Grand Festival, attracting large crowds.
Sea Procession and Fireworks Display
On the 24th, a sea procession takes place in Uwajima Bay. The sight of dozens of boats cruising Uwajima Bay, centered around the ceremonial boat carrying the portable shrine, is a scene unique to this seaside town.
At night, a grand fireworks display is held in Uwajima Bay, with approximately 3,000 fireworks illuminating the summer night sky. The beauty of the fireworks reflected on the water’s surface is exceptional, a magnificent spectacle befitting the festival’s finale.
Spread of Warei Faith | Warei Shrines Nationwide
Background of the Spread of Warei Faith
Warei faith, with its head shrine being the Warei Shrine in Uwajima, spread rapidly along the Seto Inland Sea coast from the Edo period to the Meiji period. The background to this lies in the activities of the fishermen of Uwajima.
The fishermen of Uwajima possessed excellent fishing techniques and spread the Warei faith when they went fishing in various locations. The reputation of Warei as a god of fishing spread, and branch shrines of Warei Shrine were established in various places.
Introduction to Major Branch Shrines
Warei Shrine in Sendai City
In Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, there is a Warei Shrine that was established in 1621 by Date Tadamune, the elder brother of Date Hidemune. The Sendai and Uwajima domains were both branches of the Date family, and the Warei faith was transmitted to them at an early stage.
Warei Shrine in Kochi City
The Warei Shrine in Kochi City was established in 1762 by the ancestors of the Saitaniya family. This shrine is also known as a place associated with Sakamoto Ryoma, and it is said that Ryoma visited it when he left his domain. It was worshipped as the guardian deity of the Sakamoto family.
Warei Shrines in Okayama Prefecture
There are several Warei Shrines in Okayama Prefecture, many of which were established in 1753 (Hōreki 3) by inviting deities from Uwajima. They are particularly revered by those involved in fishing in the Seto Inland Sea.
Other Regions
Many branch shrines exist along the Seto Inland Sea coast and into northern Kyushu, including Hiroshima, Yamaguchi, Oita, and Fukuoka prefectures. Furthermore, Warei Shrines can be found in the Kanto region, demonstrating the widespread influence of Warei worship.
Benefits and Worship Etiquette
Benefits of Warei Shrines
Warei Shrines are believed to offer a variety of benefits, but are especially effective for the following wishes:
Fishing and Maritime Safety
This is the most representative benefit, and is particularly effective for wishes related to the sea, such as prayers for a bountiful catch, safe voyages, and protection from maritime disasters.
Industrial Development and Business Prosperity
Due to Lord Seibei’s dedication to industrial development during his lifetime, the shrine is believed to bring benefits of business prosperity and success. Family Safety and Protection from Evil
As a deity possessing powerful spiritual energy, many people pray for protection from evil, family safety, and recovery from illness.
Traffic Safety
In modern times, the shrine is also worshipped as a deity of traffic safety, and many people visit to have their cars blessed.
Etiquette for Worship
Worship at Warei Shrine follows the same etiquette as at any other shrine.
- Bow before passing through the large torii gate.
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Cross the Shinko Bridge and pass through the Zuishinmon gate.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- Silently recite your wish.
- Visit the subsidiary shrines within the grounds.
- Bow once again at the torii gate when leaving.
Amulets and Gifts
Warei Shrine offers a variety of amulets and gifts. The amulet for maritime safety is particularly popular among those involved in shipping, and the amulet for business prosperity is sought after by many business owners.
Furthermore, special offerings are distributed during the Warei Grand Festival, attracting many visitors. Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps) are also available and are popular as souvenirs of visits.
Access and Basic Information to Warei Shrine
Access Methods
Access by Train
Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Yosan Line “Uwajima Station”. Walking north from the station, you will see the large torii gate. A taxi ride takes approximately 5 minutes.
Access by Car
Approximately 10 minutes from Matsuyama Expressway “Uwajima Kita IC”. Take National Route 56 towards Uwajima city center.
Parking
There is a free parking lot on the shrine grounds with space for approximately 50 regular cars and several tour buses. During festivals such as the Warei Grand Festival, it can get crowded, so using public transportation is recommended.
Basic Information
Address
1451 Warei-cho, Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture 798-0012
Phone Number
0895-22-0197
Opening Hours
Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
Closed Days
Open every day
Admission Fee
Free
Official Website
The official website of Warei Shrine provides information on festival dates and the latest news.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Uwajima Castle
Located about a 20-minute walk from Warei Shrine, Uwajima Castle is one of the 12 remaining original castle keeps and is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. As a castle ruled by the Date family, it is an important spot that, along with Warei Shrine, tells the history of Uwajima.
From the keep, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of Uwajima city and Uwajima Bay. Visiting it in conjunction with a visit to Warei Shrine is highly recommended.
Uwajima City Date Museum
This museum showcases the history and culture of the Uwajima Date family, and also exhibits materials related to Yamaga Seibei. It’s worth visiting to gain a deeper understanding of the historical background of Warei Shrine.
Kisaiya Plaza
Located in front of Uwajima Station, this tourist exchange facility offers local specialties and fresh seafood for purchase. There’s also a restaurant where you can experience Uwajima’s food culture, making it convenient for meals after visiting the shrine or for purchasing souvenirs.
Uwajima Bay
Famous for pearl cultivation, Uwajima Bay offers cruises around the bay. The beautiful scenery of the ria coast and the unique landscape of floating pearl cultivation rafts are a must-see.
Annual Events of Warei Shrine
Main Festivals and Events
January 1st – Saitansai (New Year’s Festival)
A festival celebrating the New Year, bustling with worshippers visiting for the first shrine visit of the year.
February 3rd – Setsubun Festival
Bean-throwing ceremonies are held, and people visit to pray for protection from evil.
June 22nd – Yamaga Seibei Memorial Day Festival
A festival held on the anniversary of Lord Seibei’s death, commemorating his achievements.
July 23rd & 24th – Warei Grand Festival
The largest festival of the year, the entire city of Uwajima is immersed in the festive atmosphere.
November 23rd – Niiname-sai Festival
A festival is held to give thanks for a bountiful harvest.
Summary
Warei Shrine has a unique history: a chief retainer who met a tragic end was enshrined as a god, and eventually, the faith spread throughout Japan as a guardian deity of industry. The network of Warei faith, centered in Uwajima and extending from the Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Kanto regions, is an interesting example of Japanese folk religion.
With its many attractions, including Japan’s largest stone torii gate, the beautiful Shinko Bridge, and a giant Otafuku mask, the Warei Grand Festival continues to captivate many people as one of Shikoku’s representative festivals. Beyond its blessings as the god of fishing and industry, it’s a shrine you should definitely visit as a spot to experience the history and culture of Uwajima.
When visiting Uwajima, be sure to include a visit to Warei Shrine in your itinerary and immerse yourself in the history and faith of “Warei-sama.” Combining it with a visit to Uwajima Castle and other nearby tourist spots will make for an even more fulfilling travel experience.
