Complete Guide to Wakasahiko Shrine | Everything You Need to Know About the 1300-Year-Old Ichinomiya of Wakasa Province
Located in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, Wakasahiko Shrine boasts a history of over 1300 years and is the most prestigious and revered shrine in the region, serving as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Wakasa Province. Composed of two shrines, the Upper Shrine (Wakasahiko Shrine) and the Lower Shrine (Wakasahime Shrine), it continues to attract many worshippers as the guardian deity of maritime safety and abundant catches. This article provides a detailed introduction to Wakasahiko Shrine, including its history, enshrined deities, highlights within the grounds, and access information.
What is Wakasahiko Shrine? | Overview of the Ichinomiya of Wakasa Province
Wakasahiko Shrine is a Shikinaisha (a shrine listed in the Engishiki, an ancient Japanese legal text) located in Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, and has long been revered as the Ichinomiya of Wakasa Province. Its former shrine rank was Kokuhei Chusha (a national shrine of the second rank), and it is currently designated as a Beppyo Jinja (a special shrine) by the Association of Shinto Shrines.
Composition of the Upper and Lower Shrines
Wakasahiko Shrine consists of two shrines: the Upper Shrine and the Lower Shrine.
- Upper Shrine (Wakasahiko Shrine): Located in Ryuzen, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture
- Lower Shrine (Wakasahime Shrine): Located in Onifu, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture
These two shrines together are collectively known as “Wakasa Ichinomiya” or “Upper and Lower Shrines.” They are also sometimes called “Onifu Myojin,” after the county name. The Upper and Lower Shrines are approximately 1.5 km apart, and visiting both is considered a complete pilgrimage.
Cultural Value
Until before World War II, it was the only National Shrine of the second rank in the Wakasa region, and was the most prestigious and revered shrine in the area. Both the Upper and Lower Shrines’ main halls, gates, and guardian gates are designated as cultural properties of Fukui Prefecture, and their architectural beauty and historical value are highly regarded.
These structures are arranged in a straight line, forming a sacred space. The scenery along the approach to the shrine, particularly from the Zuishinmon Gate to the Shinmon Gate and then to the main hall, deeply moves visitors.
History of Wakasahiko Shrine | 1300 Years of Faith
The history of Wakasahiko Shrine dates back to the early Nara period. According to shrine records, it was founded in the 5th year of the Yōrō era (721 AD).
Circumstances of Founding and Relocation
It is said that the deities, first the Hiko-no-kami and then the Hime-no-kami, descended upon Shiraishi, the source of the Reigawa River, in Nishigo-no-uchi, Onifu District, Wakasa Province. This area is now known as the sacred site of “Unose.”
After Wakasahiko-no-kami (Yamasachihiko) and Wakasahime-no-kami (Toyotamahime) descended to Unose, they traveled throughout Wakasa Province and eventually settled at their current location through the following process.
- 714 AD (Wado 7): The first shrine building was constructed in Shiraishi, Shimoneguro Village, Onifu District.
- September 10, 715 AD (Reiki 1): Wakasahiko Shrine (Upper Shrine) was relocated to its current location (Ryūzen).
- 721 AD (Yōrō 5): Wakasahime Shrine (Lower Shrine) was established at its current location (Onifu).
The Lower Shrine was established six years after the Upper Shrine, marking the completion of the system as the Ichinomiya (first shrine) of Wakasa Province.
Changes in Faith Through History
Wakasahiko Shrine has been revered as the guardian shrine of Wakasa Province from ancient times through the medieval and early modern periods. It is listed as a Myōjin Taisha (a major shrine) in the Engishiki Jinmyōchō (a list of shrines compiled in the Heian period), indicating its importance to the imperial court.
During the Sengoku period, it received protection from the Takeda and Asakura clans who ruled Wakasa, and during the Edo period, it garnered the reverence of the Sakai family, the lords of the Obama Domain. Under the Meiji era’s shrine ranking system, it was ranked as a National Shrine of the second rank, positioning it as the highest-ranking shrine in the Wakasa region.
Even today, it continues to be a center of local faith and a representative shrine of Fukui Prefecture, welcoming many worshippers.
Deities and Divine Virtues | The Myth of Umisachi and Yamasachi
The deities enshrined at Wakasahiko Shrine are the gods who appear in the Japanese myth of “Umisachi and Yamasachi.”
Deity of the Upper Shrine: Hikohodemi-no-Mikoto
The deity enshrined at the Upper Shrine (Wakasahiko Shrine) is Hikohodemi-no-Mikoto, revered as “Wakasahiko-no-Okami.” Also known as “Yamasachihiko,” he is known for the myth of visiting the palace of the sea god and marrying Toyotama-hime-no-Mikoto.
Hikohodemi-no-Mikoto is the son of Ninigi-no-Mikoto, known for the descent of the heavenly grandchild, and the grandfather of Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan.
Deity of the Lower Shrine: Toyotama-hime no Mikoto
The deity enshrined at the Lower Shrine (Wakasahime Shrine) is Toyotama-hime no Mikoto, revered as “Wakasahime Okami.” She is the daughter of the sea god and is affectionately known as “Otohime.”
Toyotama-hime no Mikoto became the consort of Hikohodemi no Mikoto and gave birth to Ugayafukiaezu no Mikoto. This child was the father of Emperor Jimmu.
Divine Virtues and Faith
The two deities, as a married couple, are believed to possess the following divine virtues:
- Safety at Sea: Protection from Toyotama-hime no Mikoto, daughter of the sea god
- Bountiful Catch of Fish: Deep faith from those involved in the fishing industry
- Matchmaking: Divine virtue as a married couple
- Safe Childbirth and Child-rearing: Divine virtue of Toyotama-hime no Mikoto
- Family Safety: As a symbol of marital harmony
Especially due to its location facing Wakasa Bay, the shrine is deeply revered by those involved in the fishing industry and shipping businesses as a guardian deity of maritime safety and bountiful catches of fish, and many offerings are still made there today.
Guide to the Grounds of Wakasahiko Shrine (Upper Shrine)
The Upper Shrine is located at 28-7 Ryuzen, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, approximately 2 km south of Higashi-Obama Station.
Zuishinmon Gate
The first thing you see when you proceed along the approach to the shrine is the Zuishinmon Gate. Designated as a cultural property of Fukui Prefecture, this gate exudes a solemn atmosphere as the entrance to the sacred area. The Zuishinmon Gate has guardian deities (guardian gods of the gate) on either side.
Main Gate
After passing through the Zuishinmon Gate, the main gate appears. This main gate is also designated as a Fukui Prefecture cultural property and is an important structure leading to the main shrine. The arrangement of the Zuishinmon Gate, main gate, and main shrine in a straight line conveys the characteristics of ancient shrine architecture.
Main Shrine
The main shrine, the heart of Wakasahiko Shrine, is a dignified building designated as a Fukui Prefecture cultural property. Recently, repair work was carried out on the main shrine’s roof, and the formal relocation ceremony was successfully held on October 4, 2025. To maintain and preserve the shrine, which boasts a history of over 1300 years, a roof repair project for the main gate and Zuishinmon Gate is currently underway.
Shrine Precincts
Surrounding the main shrine are several shrines, including Wakamiya Shrine. Visiting these shrines as well will provide a deeper religious experience.
Guide to Wakasahime Shrine (Lower Shrine)
The Lower Shrine is located in Onuki, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture, approximately 1.5 km north of the Upper Shrine and about 500 m south of Higashi-Obama Station.
The Millennium Cedar and Sacred Tree Worship
Within the grounds of Wakasahime Shrine stands a gigantic cedar tree said to be over a thousand years old. This thousand-year-old cedar is revered as a sacred tree, and in recent years, votive tablets featuring the thousand-year-old cedar have become popular as offerings. The design has also been updated, and many worshippers are seeking them out.
Lower Shrine Buildings
Like the Upper Shrine, the Lower Shrine’s main hall, sacred gate, and guardian gate are designated as cultural properties of Fukui Prefecture. While possessing a different atmosphere from the Upper Shrine, the shrine buildings, with their equivalent status, demonstrate the dignity of the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Wakasa Province.
Atmosphere of the Shrine Grounds
The grounds of the Lower Shrine are surrounded by ancient trees, including the thousand-year-old cedar, and are enveloped in a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. Unlike the Upper Shrine, the Lower Shrine offers a calmer atmosphere where you can worship at your leisure.
Annual Events and Festivals
Wakasahiko Shrine holds various festivals throughout the year.
Annual Festival
Annual festivals are held at both the Upper and Lower Shrines. In 2026, the annual festival of the Lower Shrine of Wakasahiko Shrine was held with great fanfare, attracting many parishioners and worshippers. The annual festival is the most important festival for the shrine, where gratitude is expressed to the enshrined deity and prayers are offered for the peace and prosperity of the region.
Onifu Festival (Autumn Grand Festival)
The Onifu Festival, known as an autumn tradition, is one of the most important festivals at Wakasahiko Shrine. Even after the repair of the main shrine’s roof, the traditional Onifu Festival continues, featuring a lively procession of portable shrines and the dedication of sacred dances.
Other Annual Events
- Hatsumode: Bustling with worshippers in the New Year
- Setsubun Festival: Prayers for warding off evil
- Natsukoshi no Oharae: Purification of impurities accumulated over the past six months
- Toshikoshi no Oharae: As a culmination of the year
These events maintain the connection between the local community and the shrine.
Items and Amulets
Wakasahiko Shrine offers a variety of items.
Zodiac Ema (Votive Tablets)
Ema featuring the year’s zodiac animal are given out each year. In 2026 (Reiwa 8), the “Horse” zodiac ema began to be given out and has been well-received by worshippers. Zodiac ema are popular as a way to make wishes for the New Year.
Millennium Cedar Ema
The ema featuring the thousand-year-old cedar tree, the sacred tree of Wakasahime Shrine, has recently been redesigned, becoming even more beautiful and appealing. Popular with worshippers praying for longevity and family safety.
Amulets and Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Amulets are available for various divine blessings, including maritime safety and abundant catches, as well as for matchmaking, safe childbirth, and family safety. Goshuin can also be obtained at both the Upper and Lower Shrines.
Repair Project and Crowdfunding
A large-scale repair project is underway to pass on the buildings of Wakasahiko Shrine, which boasts a history of over 1300 years, to future generations.
Completion of Upper Shrine Main Hall Roof Repair
On October 4, 2025, the repair work on the Upper Shrine Main Hall roof was completed, and the formal relocation ceremony was successfully held. This repair resulted in a historic event: for the first time in 1300 years, the married deities resided together at the Lower Shrine during the main hall repair period.
Shrine Gate and Guardian Gate Repair Project
Following the main hall repair, roof repair work on the “Shrine Gate and Guardian Gate” is currently underway. This repair project was funded through crowdfunding and was successfully completed thanks to generous donations from many people.
Repairing cultural heritage buildings requires significant funding, and support from across the country greatly contributes to the preservation of the shrine. Through such efforts, valuable cultural heritage will be passed on to future generations.
Access and Visiting Information
Access by Train
Upper Shrine (Wakasahiko Shrine)
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot (approx. 2km) from JR Obama Line “Higashi-Obama Station”
- Rental bicycles are available at Higashi-Obama Station
Lower Shrine (Wakasahime Shrine)
- Approximately 10 minutes on foot (approx. 500m) from JR Obama Line “Higashi-Obama Station”
Access by Car
- Approximately 10 minutes from Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway “Obama IC”
- Parking: Visitor parking available at both Upper and Lower Shrines
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: Open all year round, grounds freely accessible
- Admission Fee: Free
- Shrine Office Hours: Generally 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (may vary depending on the season)
Points to Note When Visiting Both Shrines
When visiting both shrines, it is generally customary to start with the Lower Shrine (Wakasahime Shrine) and then proceed to the Upper Shrine (Wakasahiko Shrine). While walking is possible, using a rental bicycle or car is more convenient.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
When visiting Wakasahiko Shrine, we recommend also visiting the nearby tourist attractions.
Unose
Unose, a sacred site where Wakasahiko-no-kami and Wakasahime-no-kami are said to have first descended, is deeply connected to the “Omizutori” ceremony at Nigatsudo Hall of Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Every year on March 2nd, the “Omizuokuri” ceremony is held, continuing the traditional event of sending water from Wakasa to Nara.
Obama City
Obama City, known as “Nara by the Sea,” boasts numerous temples designated as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties. You can enjoy visiting historical temples such as Myotsuji, Jinguji, and Myorakuji.
Wakasa Bay and Coastline
Wakasa Bay, with its beautiful ria coastline, is a spectacular spot on the Sea of Japan. You can enjoy fresh seafood, including local specialties such as Wakasa pufferfish and Wakasa sea bream.
The Charm and Legacy of Wakasahiko Shrine
Wakasahiko Shrine has a long history of over 1300 years, serving as the guardian shrine of Wakasa Province and attracting the faith of the local people. It boasts many attractions, including its unique form consisting of two shrines (upper and lower), its deities based on the myth of Umisachi and Yamasachi, and its shrine buildings designated as Fukui Prefecture cultural properties.
The faith in the shrine as a guardian deity of maritime safety and abundant catches continues to this day, making it an indispensable presence for the people living in Wakasa Bay. Furthermore, because it enshrines a married couple of deities, many visitors come to pray for matchmaking and family safety.
The ongoing repair project is an important initiative to pass on this valuable cultural heritage to future generations. The nationwide support received through crowdfunding demonstrates that Wakasahiko Shrine is recognized not only locally but also as a cultural asset of Japan as a whole.
When you visit Obama City in Fukui Prefecture, be sure to visit both Wakasahiko Shrine (Upper Shrine) and Wakasahime Shrine (Lower Shrine) and experience the sacred space imbued with 1300 years of history. Walking along the straight path from the Zuishinmon Gate to the Shinmon Gate and then to the main hall, you will feel the weight of the faith that has continued since ancient times.
As the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Wakasa Province, and beloved by the local people, Wakasahiko Shrine is a valuable resource for understanding Japanese shrine culture. In the land of Wakasa, surrounded by the sea and mountains, the time spent quietly praying and giving thanks for the blessings of the gods will hold great significance for us living in the modern age.
