About Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine
Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine is an official branch shrine of Izumo Taisha, located in Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture. It was founded in 1888 (Meiji 21) by inviting a divided spirit of Okuninushi-no-Okami from Izumo Taisha in Shimane Prefecture.
Known as one of the three major branch shrines in the Kanto region, it attracts many worshippers throughout the year seeking blessings for matchmaking and good fortune.
Deities and History
Deities
Okuninushi-no-Okami is enshrined as the main deity. Okuninushi-no-Okami is affectionately known as “Daikoku-sama” and is widely worshipped as the god of nation-building, agriculture, commerce, and medicine.
History of Founding
During the Meiji era, a Shinto priest at the time traveled to Izumo Taisha in Shimane Prefecture and, after formal procedures, received a divided spirit. For over 130 years since then, it has been cherished by the local people as the center of Izumo faith in the Kanto region.
Benefits of Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine
Matchmaking and Fulfillment of Good Relationships
The most famous benefit of Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine is matchmaking. Here, “relationships” refer not only to romantic relationships between men and women, but to all kinds of good connections.
- Love and Marriage: Meeting an ideal partner, achieving a successful relationship
- Relationships: Good relationships with friends and colleagues
- Work Connections: Business opportunities, success in career changes
In fact, many people have reported being blessed with good relationships after visiting the shrine, and worshippers come from far away.
Other Benefits
Family Safety and Marital Harmony
It also bestows the power to cherish and nurture existing relationships. It is believed to deepen family bonds and maintain harmonious marital relationships.
Business Prosperity and Success
Okuninushi-no-Okami is also a god of commerce, and many business owners visit the shrine to pray for business development and prosperity.
Recovery from Illness and Longevity
As a god of medicine, it is believed to have miraculous powers for prayers for health and recovery from illness.
Points for Worship
Correct Way to Worship
Shrines affiliated with Izumo Taisha have different worship customs than typical shrines.
Two Bows, Four Claps, One Bow
- Two Bows: Bow deeply twice.
- Four Claps: Clap your hands four times (usually twice at other shrines).
- One Bow: Bow deeply once at the end.
This custom is the same as that of Izumo Taisha Shrine itself and is considered a more respectful way of showing reverence.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Main Hall
The majestic main hall inherits the architectural style of the Izumo Taisha main shrine. The shimenawa (sacred rope) is impressive, making it a popular photo spot.
Ryuja Shrine
Within the grounds is a subsidiary shrine dedicated to Ryuja-shin (Dragon Serpent God). Worshipped as the god of water and the sea, it is believed to bring good fortune and purification.
Sacred Tree
There is a sacred tree said to be several hundred years old, known as a power spot. Taking a deep breath in front of the tree allows you to feel a refreshing energy.
Recommended Visiting Times
Early Morning Visit
Between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, there are fewer visitors, allowing for a quiet visit. Visiting in the refreshing morning air is especially refreshing.
Weekday Visit
Weekends and holidays are crowded, so if possible, visiting on a weekday is recommended. You can stroll around the grounds at a leisurely pace.
Items Offered and Amulets
Amulets for Finding Love
Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine offers a variety of amulets for finding love.
- Enmusubi Omamori: The most popular and basic amulet for finding love.
- Enmusubi Ito: A red thread to sew onto clothing or accessories for carrying around.
- Enmusubi Ema: A wooden votive tablet on which to write a wish and offer it.
Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Goshuin, written in beautiful calligraphy, are popular as souvenirs of visits. In addition to regular goshuin, seasonal limited-edition goshuin are sometimes offered.
Reception Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Offering Fee: 300 yen
Access Information
Access by Train
Using the Odakyu Line
From the North Exit of Hadano Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line
- Walking: Approximately 15 minutes (1.2 km)
- Bus: Get off at “Health and Welfare Center” bus stop from the Hadano Station North Exit bus stop, then a 3-minute walk.
- Using Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu Bus
- Fare: 180 yen for adults
- Travel Time: Approximately 5 minutes
If walking from Hadano Station, it is easiest to exit the north exit of the station, head towards National Route 246, and follow the signs.
Access by Car
Using the Tomei Expressway
- From Hadano-Nakai IC: Approximately 15 minutes (7km)
- From Isehara IC: Approximately 20 minutes (9km)
Navigation System Settings
- Address: 1221 Hirasawa, Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Phone Number: 0463-81-1122
Parking Information
Free Parking Available
- Capacity: Approximately 50 cars
- Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Fee: Free
Due to congestion on weekends, holidays, and during the New Year’s pilgrimage period (January 1st-3rd), we recommend using public transportation. If the parking lot is full, please use nearby paid parking lots.
Visiting Information
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Open year-round)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Prayer Reception: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Annual Events
Main Festivals
- January 1st: Saitansai (New Year’s Festival)
- February 3rd: Setsubunsai (Bean-throwing Ritual)
- May 14th: Reitaisai (Most Important Annual Festival)
- November 23rd: Niinamesai (Harvest Thanksgiving Festival)
Special rituals are performed during the Reitaisai, attracting many visitors.
About Prayers
We accept prayers for individuals and families.
Types of Prayer
- Prayer for Marriage
- Prayer for Family Safety
- Prayer for Business Prosperity
- Prayer for Protection from Evil
- Prayer for Safe Childbirth
- Prayer for Success in Exams
Prayer Fee
- From 5,000 yen (varies depending on the content)
- No reservation required (walk-ins welcome)
- Duration: Approximately 20 minutes
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Kobo-yama Park
A nature-rich park located about 10 minutes by car from Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine. Known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in spring, it also has well-maintained hiking trails.
Hadano Togawa Park
A vast prefectural park overlooking the Tanzawa Mountains. It has a barbecue area and a children’s playground, making it popular with families.
Tsurumaki Onsen
Several hot spring facilities offering day-trip bathing are located around Tsurumaki Onsen Station, one stop from Hadano Station on the Odakyu Line. Perfect for relaxing after visiting the shrine.
Summary
Izumo Taisha Sagami Branch Shrine is a valuable shrine in the Kanto region where you can experience authentic Izumo faith. It offers various blessings, including matchmaking, and by praying with sincerity using the formal worship ritual (two bows, four claps, one bow), your prayers will reach a deeper level.
It’s easily accessible from central Tokyo, and the tranquil setting of the nature-rich Hadano provides a peaceful environment for worship. Those seeking good fortune in love or facing a turning point in their lives should definitely visit.
