Complete Guide to Chirifu Shrine (Taketoyo Town, Aichi Prefecture) | Unraveling the Mystery of the Urashima Taro Legend and the Treasure Box
Chirifu Shrine, located in Taketoyo Town, Chita District, Aichi Prefecture, is a historical shrine deeply connected to the legend of Urashima Taro. The “Unopened Box,” a treasured shrine artifact, is said to be none other than the legendary treasure box, preserving the mystical traditions of the Chita Peninsula. This article provides detailed information you should know before visiting, including the history of Chirifu Shrine, highlights of the grounds, and access methods.
History and Origins of Chirifu Shrine
Origins of its Founding and Ancient History
Chirifu Shrine is said to have been founded in the 26th year of Emperor Suinin’s reign (around 4 BC). It enshrines Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto as its main deity and is an ancient shrine with a history of over 2000 years. Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto is known as the god of medicine, hot springs, and sake brewing, and has protected the health and prosperity of the region.
In 955 (Tenryaku 9), Kitano Tenman Tenjin was enshrined alongside him, and Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, also came to be worshipped. This enshrinement elevated Chiritsuki Shrine to a more important role as a center of local faith.
Relationship between Kijirifu Myojin and Ise Grand Shrine
Formerly written as “Kijirifuna Myojin,” it served as a niedono (offering hall) for Ise Grand Shrine. A niedono is an important facility for procuring and managing food offerings to the gods. The historical fact that the abundant seafood of the Chita Peninsula was offered to Ise Grand Shrine speaks to the deep connection of this region with the sea.
Emperor Kameyama bestowed upon the shrine the rank of Junior First Rank, and the chrysanthemum crest is used on the roof tiles, indicating a deep connection with the Imperial family. In 1944, it was designated a local shrine, recognizing its status as a representative shrine of the region.
The Legend of Urashima Taro and Chiritsuki Shrine
The Complete Story of the Urashima Legend in Taketoyo Town
Taketoyo Town has its own unique legend of Urashima Taro. According to this local legend, after returning from Ryugu-jo (the Dragon Palace), Urashima Taro arrived at a place called “Umenoki” on the border between Taketoyo Town and Mihama Town.
Urashima Taro opened the treasure box given to him by Otohime and became a white-haired old man. Legend says that he then stayed in this area, spending the rest of his life interacting with the local people. There are several spots related to Urashima Taro within Taketoyo Town, and it is still told today as one of the three legends known as “Momo-chan, Ura-chan, and Kin-chan.”
The Mystery of the Shrine Treasure “The Unopened Box”
The most important treasure of Chiritsuki Shrine is the “Unopened Box.” This is said to be the very treasure box that Princess Otohime gave to Urashima Taro when he returned home from the Dragon Palace.
This box is kept under strict security at the shrine and is rarely opened. The name “Unopened Box” itself implies a warning against opening it. The actual contents and details of the box remain shrouded in mystery, which only stimulates the imagination of visitors and enhances the shrine’s mystique.
While it’s not possible to see the actual box, the deep roots of this legend in the region are evident from the fact that Taketoyo Town carefully preserves the Urashima legend and utilizes it as a tourist resource.
About the Urashima Shrine on the Grounds
Within the grounds of Chiritsuki Shrine is the “Urashima Shrine,” erected by the villagers to honor Urashima Taro. This shrine was built by local people to express their gratitude and respect for Urashima Taro, demonstrating that the Urashima legend is not merely a folktale, but deeply rooted in the history and culture of this region.
Urashima Shrine is a small shrine, but it is a valuable historical site where you can feel the faith and dedication of the local people to preserving their traditions. Visiting both the main shrine and the worship hall will allow you to more deeply understand the unique charm of Chiritsuki Shrine.
Chiritsuki Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Features of the Main Shrine and Worship Hall
Chiritsuki Shrine is often described as a “small shrine,” but its long history and high status can be felt throughout the grounds. The main shrine maintains a traditional shrine architectural style, and the roof is adorned with a chrysanthemum crest. This chrysanthemum crest signifies a connection to the Imperial family and is a special design not seen in ordinary shrines.
The worship hall has a calm atmosphere that quietly welcomes visitors and plays a central role in the community’s faith. The entire grounds are clean, and it is clear that it is carefully preserved by the local people.
Subsidiary Shrines and Auxiliary Shrines
In addition to the main shrine, there are several subsidiary shrines within the grounds of Chiritsuki Shrine. In addition to the aforementioned Urashima Shrine, numerous small shrines dedicated to local guardian deities and tutelary gods are scattered throughout the grounds, each imbued with the history and beliefs of the region.
By visiting these subsidiary shrines, one can understand that Chiritsuki Shrine is not merely a place dedicated to a single deity, but a comprehensive sanctuary encompassing the faith of the entire region.
Atmosphere and Seasonal Expressions of the Shrine Grounds
The grounds of Chiritsuki Shrine are enveloped in tranquility, offering a healing space far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Ancient trees cover the grounds, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons.
In spring, the fresh greenery is beautiful; in summer, the shade of the trees provides coolness; in autumn, the autumn leaves color the grounds; and in winter, one can enjoy a quiet visit in the crisp air. It is also a popular spot for photography, and many visitors post beautiful photos of the grounds on social media.
Deities and Benefits
About the Main Deity, Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto
Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto is known in Japanese mythology as a deity who, along with Okuninushi-no-Mikoto, helped build the country. This deity, small in stature but possessing exceptional wisdom and skill, presides over fields directly related to people’s lives, such as medicine, hot springs, sake brewing, and agriculture.
At Chiritsuki Shrine, Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto is enshrined as the principal deity, and prayers for the health and prosperity of the region have been offered. It is believed to grant blessings for recovery from illness, longevity, and business success.
Enshrined Together with Kitano Tenman Tenjin
Kitano Tenman Tenjin (Sugawara no Michizane), enshrined together in Tenryaku 9 (858), is widely worshipped as the god of learning. At Chiritsuki Shrine, by enshrining both Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto and Sugawara no Michizane, blessings are bestowed in a wide range of areas, including health, academics, and business.
Many visitors, including students taking exams and those praying for academic success, come to the shrine, and it is also cherished as a deity watching over education in the region.
Expected Benefits
The main benefits you can expect at Chiritsuki Shrine are as follows:
- Health and Longevity/Healing from Illness: The power of Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto as the god of medicine
- Academic Success/Prayers for Passing Exams: The protection of Sugawara no Michizane as the god of learning
- Business Prosperity/Success: The power of Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto for industrial development
- Matchmaking/Good Relationships: Due to the connection with Princess Otohime from the Urashima legend
- Maritime Safety/Abundant Fishing: Due to the deep connection with the sea
Access and Basic Information
Access by Train
The nearest station to Chiritsuki Shrine is Fuki Station on the Meitetsu Kowa Line.
Access from Fuki Station:
- Approximately 14-15 minutes on foot (approx. 700m) from the Fuki Station exit.
- Head north from the station and go through the residential area.
- The route is relatively easy to follow, and locals will kindly guide you if you ask.
Using the JR Taketoyo Line:
- It is also possible to access the shrine on foot from Taketoyo Station on the JR Taketoyo Line, but Fuki Station is closer.
- It takes about 20 minutes on foot from Taketoyo Station.
Access by Car and Parking Information
Access by Car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Chita Peninsula Expressway “Handa Chuo IC”.
- Accessible from National Route 247.
- Please enter “34 Higashi Odaka Ikeda, Taketoyo-cho, Chita-gun, Aichi Prefecture” into your car navigation system.
Parking:
- There are parking spaces commensurate with the size of the shrine, but it is not a large parking lot.
- It is expected to be crowded during New Year’s visits and festivals, so using public transportation is recommended.
- Please be mindful of parking etiquette to avoid inconveniencing neighbors.
Basic Information List
Location: 34 Higashi-Odaka Ikeda, Taketoyo-cho, Chita-gun, Aichi Prefecture
Phone Number: 0569-72-1111 (Taketoyo Town Hall)
Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Please check the hours of the shrine office)
Admission Fee: Free
Goshuin (Shrine Seal): Please check details on-site
Official Website: Information is available on the Taketoyo Town Tourism Association website
Nearby Tourist Spots and Recommended Courses
Urashima Legend Related Spots in Taketoyo Town
After visiting Chiritsuki Shrine, consider visiting other Urashima Legend related spots in Taketoyo Town.
Umenoki (Urashima Taro’s Landing Site):
Located on the border of Taketoyo Town and Mihama Town, this is the place where Urashima Taro is said to have landed upon his return from Ryugu-jo (the Dragon Palace). The place name remains today, allowing visitors to reflect on the legend.
Urashima Taro-related Monuments in the Town:
Throughout Taketoyo Town, there are monuments and information boards themed around Urashima Taro, allowing you to enjoy the world of the legend while strolling through the town.
Nearby Shrines and Temples
Zenpoji Temple:
A historic temple located near Chiritsuki Shrine, it is a popular destination for visitors who come to both. The tranquil grounds offer a peaceful retreat.
Other Shrines on the Chita Peninsula:
Many shrines and temples are scattered throughout the Chita Peninsula, making them easy to incorporate into a shrine pilgrimage route. Many visitors combine their visits with the Chita Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
Recommended Sightseeing Courses
Half-Day Course:
- Arrive at Fuki Station
- Visit Chiritsuki Shrine (30 minutes)
- Tour Urashima Legend spots in Taketoyo Town (1 hour)
- Visit Zenpoji Temple (30 minutes)
- Lunch at a restaurant in Taketoyo Town
Full-Day Course:
We recommend a plan that includes visiting Chiritsuki Shrine and Taketoyo Town in the morning, and visiting other tourist spots on the Chita Peninsula in the afternoon (such as sake breweries in Handa City or the pottery walking trail in Tokoname City).
Annual Events and Festivals
Main Festivals and Events
Chiritsuki Shrine holds various festivals and events throughout the year.
Annual Grand Festival:
The annual grand festival, held at a fixed time each year, features a portable shrine procession and Kagura (sacred dance) performances, bringing together local people. It is an important event for preserving local traditions and has been passed down through generations.
New Year’s Visit:
Many worshippers visit the shrine in the new year to pray for health and happiness throughout the year. It’s a popular local spot for New Year’s visits, and is especially lively from January 1st to the third day of the year.
Other Events:
Seasonal events such as the Setsubun Festival, Summer Purification Ceremony, and Autumn Harvest Thanksgiving Festival are also held. Please check with the Taketoyo Town Tourism Association or local information for detailed schedules.
Manners and Etiquette for Worship
Please observe basic manners for visiting a shrine and worship with respect.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin.
- Walk away from the center of the path.
- Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once in front of the main hall.
- Be quiet on the shrine grounds and be considerate of other worshippers.
Photography is generally permitted, but there are areas where photography is restricted, such as inside the main hall and around the “unopened box.” Always check before taking photos.
The Charm of Chiritsuki Shrine and Visitor Feedback
Visitor Reviews and Reputation
Visitors who have visited Chiritsuki Shrine have shared the following comments:
“It’s a small shrine, but I found it interesting because I could feel the atmosphere of the Urashima legend.”
“It’s a shrine with a long history, and the grounds have a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. I felt like my soul was cleansed.”
“It’s a shrine that evokes a sense of romance, with legends of Urashima and the treasure box. It was a good opportunity to learn about the history of the Chita Peninsula.”
“The easy access, being within walking distance from Fuki Station, is also appealing. It’s just the right distance for a stroll and visit.”
Recommended Photography Spots
Chiritsuki Shrine is also a popular photography spot.
Recommended Photo Spots:
- The scenery of the torii gate and approach to the shrine
- The chrysanthemum crest on the roof of the main shrine
- The Urashima Shrine and the surrounding nature
- The contrast between the ancient trees in the shrine grounds and the shrine building
- Nature in all four seasons (cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, autumn leaves, snowscapes)
When posting on social media, using hashtags such as “#ChiritsukiShrine”, “#TaketoyoTown”, and “#UrashimaLegend” will allow you to connect with people who share the same interests.
Summary: Rediscovering the Charm of Chiritsuki Shrine
Chiritsuki Shrine is an ancient shrine with a history of approximately 2000 years, located in Taketoyo Town, Chita District, Aichi Prefecture. It enshrines Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto and Sugawara no Michizane, and is believed to offer a wide range of blessings, including health, academic success, and business prosperity.
Its most distinctive feature is its deep connection to the legend of Urashima Taro. The shrine’s treasure, the “Unopened Box,” is said to be the Tamatebako (treasure box) itself, and a Urashima Shrine is also enshrined within the grounds. The legend of Urashima Taro is deeply rooted throughout Taketoyo Town, and Chiritsuki Shrine is its central sacred site.
Despite its small size, the shrine grounds reveal elements of its high status, such as the chrysanthemum crest indicating its connection to the Imperial family and its high rank of First Rank. It is a precious shrine where you can worship in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, feeling the history and romance.
It is easily accessible, about a 15-minute walk from Meitetsu Fuki Station, making it a convenient stop as part of sightseeing on the Chita Peninsula. This shrine is highly recommended for those interested in the legend of Urashima Taro, those who want to visit a historical shrine, and those seeking a quiet and healing space.
When you visit Taketoyo Town, why not experience the world of timeless history and legend at Chiritsuki Shrine?
