Complete Guide to Hot Spring Shrines: History, Benefits, and Famous Shrines Nationwide
Hot spring shrines are shrines located in hot spring areas throughout Japan, and have long been revered by spa-goers and local residents. This article provides a detailed explanation of the historical background, benefits, and methods of worship of hot spring shrines, as well as some of the most representative hot spring shrines across Japan.
What are Hot Spring Shrines?
Hot spring shrines are a general term for shrines built to express gratitude for the blessings of hot springs and to pray for their protection. Japan is one of the world’s leading hot spring countries, and since ancient times, hot springs have been valued as places for treating illnesses and recovering from fatigue. Many shrines dedicated to the gods of hot springs exist in these hot spring areas.
Origins and History of Hot Spring Shrines
The origins of hot spring shrines date back to ancient times. Ancient documents such as the Nihon Shoki and Fudoki record the founding of shrines along with legends of hot spring discoveries. Many hot spring shrines enshrine the discoverers of hot springs or the gods who protect them.
From the Nara period to the Heian period, temples were built in hot spring areas along with the introduction of Buddhism. However, due to the influence of syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism, it was common for shrines and temples to coexist. After the Meiji Restoration’s separation of Shinto and Buddhism, many hot spring shrines have become independent shrines to this day.
Characteristics of Hot Spring Shrines
Hot spring shrines share the following common characteristics:
Location Characteristics
- Often located near hot spring sources
- Located in the center of hot spring towns or on hills
- Surrounded by a rich natural environment
Architectural Style Characteristics
- Shrine buildings reflecting the local climate and culture
- Structure adapted to the steam and humidity of hot springs
- Hot spring cauldrons and related offerings can be seen
Deities and Benefits of Hot Spring Shrines
The deities enshrined in hot spring shrines vary by region, but they share common benefits.
Main Deities
Ōnamuchi-no-Mikoto
Also known as Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, known as the god of nation-building. There is a legend that he discovered hot springs and taught people how to use them for therapeutic purposes.
Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto
He is revered as the god of medicine and is said to have worked with Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto in nation-building. He is enshrined in many hot spring shrines as the god who spread therapeutic methods using hot springs.
Yunokami (Hot Spring God)
This is a deity that personifies the hot springs themselves, and is called by various names depending on the region.
Benefits of Hot Spring Shrines
Hot spring shrines are said to offer the following benefits:
Health and Recovery from Illness
This is the most representative benefit. People give thanks for the healing power of hot springs and pray for recovery from illness and the maintenance of good health.
Beauty and Beautiful Skin
Due to the skin-beautifying effects of hot springs, it is believed to bring benefits for achieving beauty.
Matchmaking and Family Safety
Since hot spring areas have long been places of interaction among people, it is believed to bring benefits for good relationships and strengthening family bonds.
Business Prosperity
Wishing for the development of the hot spring town, the shrine is also expected to bring business prosperity.
Safe Travel
As hot spring resorts are travel destinations, the shrine also offers blessings for safe travel.
Representative Hot Spring Shrines Nationwide
Numerous hot spring shrines exist throughout Japan. Here, we introduce some representative hot spring shrines with particularly long histories and a large following.
Nasu Onsen Shrine (Tochigi Prefecture)
Located in Nasu Town, Tochigi Prefecture, Nasu Onsen Shrine boasts a history of over 1300 years as the guardian deity of the Nasu Onsen area.
History and Origin
Founded in 630 during the Asuka period, it is also known as a shrine associated with Nasu Yoichi. A legend remains that Nasu Yoichi prayed for victory during the Genpei War.
Deities and Blessings
The shrine enshrines Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, and Homutawake-no-Mikoto, and is believed to offer blessings for healing from illness, protection of hot springs, and long-lasting military fortune.
Highlights
- A sacred tree over 800 years old
- Imposing shrine architecture
- A replica of an ema (votive tablet) donated by Nasu Yoichi
- The Onsen Shrine Grand Festival (held in October)
Ikaho Shrine in Ikaho Onsen (Gunma Prefecture)
Ikaho Shrine, located in Ikaho Onsen in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, is a shrine dedicated to the protection of the hot springs, situated at the top of the stone steps.
History and Characteristics
The exact date of its founding is unknown, but it has been worshipped as the guardian deity of Ikaho Onsen since ancient times. The shrine is located at the top of 365 stone steps, requiring a moderate workout for worshippers.
Deities and Benefits
The main deities are Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, and the shrine is believed to offer blessings for hot spring protection, fertility, safe childbirth, and matchmaking.
Points to Note When Visiting
- Enjoy the journey up the stone steps
- The view from the shrine grounds is magnificent
- Famous as the birthplace of onsen manju (hot spring steamed buns)
Yumae Shrine (Kumamoto Prefecture)
Located in Yumae-cho, Kuma-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture, Yumae Shrine is revered as the guardian shrine of the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region.
History
Founded during the Heian period, it is a shrine that combines mountain worship of Mt. Ichifusa with hot spring worship.
Deities and Benefits
It enshrines the god of Mt. Ichifusa and offers benefits of protection from hot springs, abundant harvests, and family safety.
Features
- One of the largest shrines in the Kuma region
- Many historical buildings remain
- The autumn festival is grand
Yuzumi Shrine (Hyogo Prefecture)
Located in Arima Onsen, Kita-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Yuzumi Shrine is the guardian deity of Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs. History and Origin
Founded during the Nara period, it is based on the legend that Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto discovered Arima Onsen.
Deities and Benefits
It enshrines Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto, Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, and Kumano-Kusumi-no-Mikoto, and offers blessings for protection of the hot springs, healing from illness, and matchmaking.
Highlights
- Located in the heart of Arima Onsen
- Adjacent to Onsen-ji Temple
- Famous for the Irizome-shiki (first bathing ceremony) on January 2nd
Onsen Shrine (Fukushima Prefecture)
Onsen Shrine, located in Joban-Yumoto-machi, Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, is revered by local residents as the guardian deity of Iwaki Yumoto Onsen.
History
Founded in the early Heian period, it is said that Minamoto no Yoshiie prayed for victory during his eastern expedition.
Deities and Benefits
This shrine enshrines Ōkuninushi-no-Mikoto and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, and offers blessings for protection of hot springs, healing from illness, and business prosperity.
Features
- Located on a hill overlooking the Yumoto Onsen hot spring town
- Center of local festivals
- A symbol of recovery after the Great East Japan Earthquake
Shiogama Onsen Shrine (Miyagi Prefecture)
This hot spring shrine in the Shiogama area of Miyagi Prefecture tells the history of salt production and hot springs in Shiogama.
History and Features
Shiogama Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the god of salt production, but it also has deep ties to hot springs and plays a role in protecting the local hot springs.
Other Notable Hot Spring Shrines
Kusatsu Onsen Kōsenji Temple and Shirane Shrine (Gunma Prefecture)
Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan’s leading hot spring resorts, and Kōsenji Temple is worshipped as a hot spring temple, while Shirane Shrine is worshipped as a shrine protecting hot springs.
Beppu Onsen’s Hot Spring Shrines (Oita Prefecture)
Beppu Onsen, boasting the largest number of hot springs in Japan, has several hot spring shrines, each protecting its respective area.
Gero Onsen’s Onsen-ji Temple and Onsen Shrine (Gifu Prefecture)
Gero Onsen, one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs, has Onsen-ji Temple, which enshrines the Yakushi Nyorai (Medicine Buddha) of the hot springs, preserving the remnants of the syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism.
Dogo Onsen’s Yu Shrine and Isaniwa Shrine (Ehime Prefecture)
Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, has Yu Shrine and Isaniwa Shrine, which protect the history and culture of the hot springs.
How to Visit and Manners for Hot Spring Shrines
This section introduces basic etiquette and manners when visiting hot spring shrines.
Preparation Before Visiting
Attire
Even when visiting a shrine in a hot spring area, please dress appropriately for shrine visits. While wearing a yukata (light cotton kimono) has a unique charm of hot spring areas, you should avoid clothing that exposes a lot of skin.
Ritual for Washing Hands
- Hold the ladle in your right hand and wash your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Wash your left hand again.
- Hold the ladle upright, wash the handle, and return it to its original position.
Etiquette for Worship
Basic Worship Method (Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow)
- Gently place your offering in the offering box.
- Ring the bell (if present).
- Bow deeply twice.
- Clasp your hands twice.
- With your hands clasped together, silently recite your wish.
- Bow deeply once.
Manners Unique to Hot Spring Shrines
Offering of Hot Spring Deposits and Hot Spring Water
Some hot spring shrines have a custom of offering hot spring deposits and hot spring water. Please follow local customs.
Behavior in Hot Spring Towns
Since hot spring shrines are often located in the center of hot spring towns, you can enjoy strolling around the town after your visit. Please remember to be considerate of local residents.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted within the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking photos inside the main hall or in areas where photography is prohibited.
Hot Spring Shrines and Hot Spring Culture
Hot spring shrines are not merely religious facilities, but symbolic representations of Japanese hot spring culture.
Relationship with Hot Spring Therapy Culture
During the Edo period, hot spring therapy spread among common people, and many visited hot spring resorts. It became customary for those seeking therapeutic bathing to visit hot spring shrines and pray for recovery from illness.
The Flow of Hot Spring Therapy
- Upon arrival at the hot spring resort, first visit the hot spring shrine.
- Hot spring therapy for several days to several weeks.
- Before returning home, visit the shrine again to express gratitude.
This custom continues in some hot spring resorts today.
Hot Spring Festivals and Rituals
Many hot spring shrines hold various festivals and rituals throughout the year.
Representative Hot Spring Festivals
- Yu Matsuri (Hot Spring Festival): A festival expressing gratitude for the blessings of hot springs.
- Yumomi Shinto Ritual: A traditional ritual of lowering the temperature of hot spring water.
- Onsen Kanshasai (Hot Spring Thanksgiving Festival): A gathering of people involved with hot springs to express gratitude for the blessings of hot springs.
These festivals are popular tourist events and contribute to the revitalization of local communities.
The Role of Hot Spring Shrines in Modern Times
Modern hot spring shrines fulfill a variety of roles, including:
Role as a Tourist Resource
Hot spring shrines attract many tourists as tourist spots in hot spring areas.
Center of the Local Community
They serve as places of worship for local residents and play a role in strengthening community bonds.
Preservation of Cultural Heritage
They preserve old buildings and cultural properties, passing on the history of the region to future generations.
Environmental Conservation
They serve as a spiritual pillar promoting the protection and sustainable use of hot spring resources.
How to Enjoy Visiting Hot Spring Shrines
A trip visiting hot spring shrines is a fascinating experience where you can enjoy hot springs, faith, history, and culture all at once.
Planning a Pilgrimage to Hot Spring Shrines
Themed Pilgrimages
- A trip to visit historical hot spring shrines
- A trip to cover hot spring shrines in a specific region
- A trip to visit hot spring shrines based on the type of blessings they offer
Enjoying Combinations
- Visiting a hot spring shrine + Hot spring bathing
- Visiting a hot spring shrine + Local cuisine
- Visiting a hot spring shrine + Sightseeing in the surrounding area
Collecting Goshuin (Shrine Stamps)
Many hot spring shrines offer Goshuin. Bringing a Goshuincho (stamp book) and collecting stamps as a memento of your visit is a popular way to enjoy the experience.
Manners for Receiving a Goshuin (Shrine/Temple Stamp)
- Always pray before receiving a Goshuin.
- Handle your Goshuincho (stamp book) carefully.
- Prepare the Goshuin fee (generally 300-500 yen).
- Don’t forget to express your gratitude to the shrine staff.
Recommended Hot Spring Shrine Pilgrimage Route
Kanto Area
Nasu Onsen Shrine (Tochigi) → Ikaho Shrine (Gunma) → Shirane Shrine in Kusatsu (Gunma)
Kansai Area
Yuzumi Shrine in Arima Onsen (Hyogo) → Shisho Shrine in Kinosaki Onsen (Hyogo) → Onsen Shrine in Shirahama Onsen (Wakayama)
Kyushu Area
Onsen Shrine in Beppu Onsen (Oita) → Unagihime Shrine in Yufuin (Oita) → Yumae Shrine (Kumamoto)
Amulets and Souvenirs at Hot Spring Shrines
Hot spring shrines offer unique amulets and souvenirs related to hot springs.
Representative Amulets
Health Amulet
This is the most common amulet, wishing for recovery from illness and maintenance of good health.
Beautiful Skin Amulet
This amulet, inspired by the skin-beautifying effects of hot springs, is popular with women.
Hot Spring Amulet
This amulet symbolizes the blessings of hot springs and is a unique item given out in hot spring areas.
Safe Travel Amulet
This amulet prays for safe travels.
Other Items Offered
- Ofuda (amulets)
- Ema (votive tablets)
- Amulet pouches
- Small bottles of hot spring water (at some shrines)
- Sacred sake
Hot Spring Shrine Festival Calendar
Various festivals are held throughout the year at hot spring shrines. The main festival dates are listed below.
Spring Festivals (March-May)
- Spring Grand Festival: Held in April-May at many hot spring shrines
- Hot Spring Opening Ceremony: Celebrating the start of the new hot spring season
Summer Festivals (June-August)
- Summer Purification Ceremony: A ritual to ward off evil spirits, held at the end of June
- Summer Festival: Held in July-August, often in conjunction with local summer festivals
Autumn Festivals (September-November)
- Autumn Grand Festival: The most grand festival, often held in October-November
- Harvest Thanksgiving Festival: A festival to give thanks for the blessings of the hot springs and the autumn harvest
Winter Festivals (December-February)
- New Year’s Eve Ceremony: Held from New Year’s Eve to New Year’s Day
- First Bath Festival: A ritual celebrating the first hot spring bath of the new year
Hot Spring Shrines and the Science of Hot Springs
The faith in hot spring shrines is deeply connected to the efficacy of hot springs as explained by modern science.
Medical Effects of Hot Springs
Hot springs have the following scientifically proven effects:
Physical Effects
- Thermal effect: Promotes blood circulation, relieves muscle tension
- Buoyancy effect: Reduces stress on joints
- Water pressure effect: Massage effect
Chemical Effects
- Effects depending on the spring water quality (sulfur springs, carbonated springs, chloride springs, etc.)
- Absorption of components through the skin
Psychological Effects
- Relaxation effect
- Stress relief
Ancient people, even without a scientific explanation, knew the effects of hot springs empirically and revered their blessings as divine power.
Protection of Hot Spring Resources
Hot spring shrines also play a spiritual role in promoting the sustainable use of hot spring resources. They discourage excessive development and misuse, fostering a respect for the blessings of nature.
Precautions When Visiting Hot Spring Shrines
When visiting hot spring shrines, please note the following points.
Access and Hours
- Many hot spring shrines are located in the center of hot spring towns, but some are in mountainous areas.
- Check visiting hours in advance.
- Be careful of snow and ice during winter.
Manners on the Shrine Grounds
- Worship quietly.
- Take your trash with you.
- Respect the no-smoking areas.
- Check whether pets are allowed.
Manners in Hot Spring Towns
- Be considerate of the lives of local residents.
- Refrain from loud conversations.
- Avoid smoking outside designated areas.
The Future of Hot Spring Shrines
Hot spring shrines need to adapt to modern society while preserving their traditions.
Balancing Tourism and Faith
While an increase in tourists is economically beneficial, it is also important to maintain the tranquility of a place of worship. Many hot spring shrines are seeking a balance between utilizing them as tourist resources and preserving their place of worship.
Onsen Shrines in the Digital Age
- Online Information Dissemination
- The Potential of Virtual Worship
- Sharing the Shrine’s Appeal Through Social Media
These initiatives are expected to convey the charm of Onsen Shrines to younger generations.
Contribution to Regional Revitalization
Onsen Shrines are expected to play the following roles as symbols of the region:
- Enhancing their appeal as a tourist resource
- Preserving regional culture
- Strengthening community bonds
- Raising environmental awareness
Summary
Onsen Shrines are unique entities where Japanese hot spring culture and faith are fused. Since ancient times, people have expressed gratitude for the blessings of hot springs and prayed for their protection. Even today, Onsen Shrines play an important role not only as tourist resources but also as centers of local communities and as places to convey traditional Japanese culture.
When visiting a hot spring area, be sure to visit an Onsen Shrine and experience the history and culture of hot springs. Combining hot spring bathing with shrine visits will provide a fulfilling travel experience that refreshes both mind and body.
A tour of hot spring shrines is an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Japan’s rich hot spring culture. Each hot spring shrine has its own unique history and characteristics, offering new discoveries with every visit. Visiting a hot spring shrine to express gratitude for the blessings of hot springs and pray for health and happiness will surely be a meaningful experience for modern people as well.
