Complete Guide to Ukemochi Shrine (Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture) | History, Deities, and Access Information
Ukemochi Shrine, located in Motomachi, Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture, is a shrine dedicated to Ukemochi-no-kami, the goddess of food. Its long, narrow grounds, situated between a road and a waterway, have garnered deep-rooted faith from the local community. This article provides a detailed overview of Ukemochi Shrine, including its historical background, the origin of its deities, the characteristics of its grounds, and access information.
Basic Information on Ukemochi Shrine
Ukemochi Shrine is a beloved local shrine located in a residential area of Kuroishi City.
Location and Contact Information
- Location: 64 Motomachi, Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture 036-0387
- Nearest Station: Approximately 10 minutes on foot (approx. 800m) from Sakaimatsu Station on the Konan Railway Konan Line, approximately 10 minutes on foot (approx. 768m) from Kuroishi Station
- Map: Located between Sakaimatsu Station and Motomachi, the shrine grounds are characterized by their long, narrow shape, sandwiched between a road and a waterway.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: Open all day (grounds are freely accessible)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Parking available on the grounds (limited number of spaces)
About the Deity
About Ukemochi-no-Kami
Ukemochi-no-Kami, the deity enshrined at Ukemochi Shrine, is a goddess of food who appears in Japanese mythology. “Ukemochi” means “to possess food,” and the deity has been worshipped since ancient times as the protector of abundant harvests and food in general.
According to the *Nihon Shoki* (Chronicles of Japan), Ukemochi-no-kami is said to have the ability to produce various foods from her mouth, and is believed to be the origin of grains such as rice, millet, wheat, and beans, as well as livestock such as cattle and horses. For this reason, she has attracted particularly fervent devotion from people involved in agriculture and livestock farming.
An Auspicious Shrine for “Preserving Food”
The shrine’s name, “Ukemochi,” means “preserving food,” making it a very auspicious name. Ukemochi Shrine in Kuroishi City is deeply rooted in the community as a place of worship for people who are grateful for their daily meals and pray for abundant food.
History and Origins of Ukemochi Shrine
Transition from Sozengu Shrine
It is said that Ukemochi Shrine in Kuroishi City was originally called “Sozengu Shrine.” Sozen-gu Shrine is also associated with “Sozen” and is believed to have been a shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of horses.
While there are several Hoshoku Shrines in Aomori Prefecture, the Hoshoku Shrine in Tsurugasaka, Aomori City, also has a history of being renamed from Sozen-gu Shrine. The Tsurugasaka Hoshoku Shrine is said to have originated in 1638 (Kanei 15), when Tsugaru Nobuyoshi, the third lord of the Hirosaki Domain, built a ranch and erected the Sozen-do hall, which enshrined Batō Kannon (Horse-Headed Kannon). The Hoshoku Shrine in Kuroishi City may have a similar origin.
Merger and Restoration in the Meiji Era
In the Meiji era, due to the government’s shrine reorganization policy, Hoshoku Shrine was merged with a nearby Inari shrine. However, it was later separated again and returned to its current location as Hoshoku Shrine, where it remains today. This history speaks to the strong faith of the local residents in the shrine and their determination to continue protecting Hoshoku Shrine.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Distinctive Shrine Grounds Layout
The grounds of Hoshoku Shrine are characterized by their long, narrow shape, sandwiched between a road and a waterway. This unique layout is thought to reflect the topography and water management history of Kuroishi City. The grounds have a very bright and open atmosphere and are cherished as a place of relaxation for local residents.
Wooden Statues in the Worship Hall
Wooden statues are displayed in the worship hall, catching the eye of visitors. These statues are carefully preserved as valuable cultural assets that tell the story of the shrine’s history and faith. While the exact date of creation and the artist are unknown, they are an important legacy demonstrating the depth of faith in the region.
Atmosphere of the Shrine Grounds
Although there is no historical information available, the well-maintained grounds are clean, bright, and warmly welcome visitors. Despite being located in a residential area, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere, providing a place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find peace of mind.
Access Methods
Access by Train
Using the Konan Railway Konan Line:
- From Sakaimatsu Station: Approximately 10 minutes on foot east from the station (approx. 800m)
- From Kuroishi Station: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the station (approx. 768m)
The Konan Railway Konan Line is a local line connecting Hirosaki Station and Kuroishi Station, and is an important means of transportation in the region. Sakaimatsu Station is one of the closest stations to Hoshoku Shrine.
Access by Car
Route from Major Roads:
- Approximately 5 minutes from the center of Kuroishi City via National Route 102
- Approximately 10 minutes from the Tohoku Expressway Kuroishi Interchange
There is some parking space on the shrine grounds, but the number of spaces is limited, so we recommend using public transportation.
Landmarks in the Surrounding Area
Hoshoku Shrine is located in a residential area of Motomachi, Kuroishi City. Located between Sakaimatsu Station and Motomachi, nestled between a road and a waterway, it’s easiest to find using a map.
Relationship between Kuroishi City and Hoshoku Shrine
Historical Background of Kuroishi City
Kuroishi City is located in the southern part of the Tsugaru region and flourished as a castle town of the Kuroishi Domain, a branch of the Hirosaki Domain, during the Edo period. Even today, it remains one of Aomori Prefecture’s leading tourist destinations, preserving its historical streetscape and traditional culture.
Shrine Culture in Kuroishi City
Kuroishi City has 36 shrines, including Hoshoku Shrine. These shrines are important cultural heritage sites that convey the region’s history and beliefs, and serve as a spiritual pillar for the citizens. Among them, Hoshoku Shrine holds a special position as a rare shrine dedicated to the god of food.
Points to Note When Visiting
Etiquette for Visiting
When visiting Ukemochi Shrine, follow the general etiquette for visiting a shrine:
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Cleanse your hands and mouth at the temizuya (water basin) (if available)
- Offer your donation in front of the main hall
- Pray using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual
- Bow upon leaving
Recommended Times to Visit
- Spring: The season of fresh greenery, a time to pray for a bountiful harvest
- Autumn: A time to give thanks for the harvest
- New Year’s: A time to give thanks for the food of the year and pray for a good harvest in the new year
It is recommended to visit with feelings of gratitude towards Ukemochi-no-kami, the god of food.
Nearby Attractions
Tourist Spots in Kuroishi City
When visiting Hoshoku Shrine, we recommend also visiting other tourist spots in Kuroishi City:
- Komise Street: A traditional streetscape that retains the atmosphere of the Edo period
- Nakano Momijiyama: A scenic spot known for its beautiful autumn foliage
- Kuroishi Onsenkyo: A historic hot spring resort where you can relax
- Tsugaru Traditional Crafts Museum: A facility where you can learn about traditional crafts of the Tsugaru region
Shrines and Temples Around Sakaimatsu Station
In addition to Hoshoku Shrine, there are several other shrines and temples scattered around Sakaimatsu Station. For those who enjoy visiting shrines, we recommend visiting these temples and shrines as well.
The Charm of Hoshoku Shrine
A Faith Rooted in the Community
Hoshoku Shrine is not a large shrine, but it is a familiar shrine deeply loved by local residents and visited daily. Although it lacks extravagant decorations, the clean grounds and the faith of the local people are the shrine’s greatest charms. ### A Place to Offer Gratitude for Food
In modern society, we take the abundance of food for granted, but Hoshoku Shrine is a precious place that reminds us to be grateful for our daily meals. As its name suggests (“Hoshoku” means “to preserve food”), people visit to express gratitude for the blessings of food and to pray that they will never lack for food in the future.
Quiet Presence and Open Atmosphere
Despite being located in a residential area, Hoshoku Shrine maintains a tranquil atmosphere. At the same time, its bright and open grounds warmly welcome visitors. This exquisite balance is the unique charm of Hoshoku Shrine.
Differences Between Hoshoku Shrine in Kuroishi City and Hoshoku Shrine in Aomori City
There are several Hoshoku Shrines in Aomori Prefecture, each with its own unique history and characteristics.
Hoshoku Shrine in Tsurugasaka, Aomori City
Hoshoku Shrine in Tsurugasaka, Aomori City, is said to have originated in 1638 (Kanei 15) when Tsugaru Nobuyoshi, the third lord of the Hirosaki Domain, built a ranch. He invited Kurauchi Zusho, the ranch manager, from the Nanbu Domain, and built the Sozendo, a hall dedicated to Batō Kannon (Horse-Headed Kannon). Later, its name changed to Sozengu, and then to Hoshoku Shrine, which it remains today.
Characteristics of Hoshoku Shrine in Kuroishi City
Hoshoku Shrine in Kuroishi City is also said to have a history of being renamed from Sozengu, and may have had the characteristics of a guardian deity of horses. Its history of being merged with an Inari shrine during the Meiji period before becoming independent again is also noteworthy.
Both shrines enshrine Hoshoku-no-kami and share the commonality of having evolved from Sozengu, yet each has cultivated its own unique faith in its respective region.
Precautions When Visiting the Shrine
Manners and Etiquette
- Walk quietly within the shrine grounds and refrain from loud conversations.
- Photography is permitted, but please be considerate of other visitors.
- Please take all your trash with you.
- Do not touch the plants or buildings within the shrine grounds.
Precautions When Using the Parking Lot
Parking space within the shrine grounds is limited, so please avoid long-term parking and move your vehicle promptly after your visit. We recommend using public transportation whenever possible.
Planning Your Visit Using Maps
When visiting Hoshoku Shrine, using your smartphone’s map function is convenient. Set your destination to 64 Motomachi, Kuroishi City, and check the route from Sakaimatsu Station or Kuroishi Station.
Recommended Map Services
- Google Maps: Displays detailed walking routes and estimated travel times.
- Yahoo! Maps: Includes comprehensive information on surrounding facilities.
- Mapion: Provides detailed address information and phonebook functionality.
Using these map services will make accessing Hoshoku Shrine easier.
Summary
Located in Motomachi, Kuroishi City, Aomori Prefecture, Hoshoku Shrine is a historic shrine dedicated to Hoshoku-no-kami, the goddess of food. Having changed its name from Sozome-gu to Hoshoku Shrine, and undergoing a merger during the Meiji era, it has continued to attract the faith of the local people to this day.
The long, narrow grounds nestled between a road and a waterway, the wooden carvings in the worship hall, and the bright, open atmosphere are just some of the unique features of Hoshoku Shrine that captivate visitors. Its convenient location, approximately a 10-minute walk from Sakaimatsu Station, is another attractive feature.
As a place to express gratitude for daily meals and pray for abundant food, Hoshoku Shrine remains a valuable cultural heritage of Kuroishi City. When visiting Kuroishi City, why not stop by Hoshoku Shrine and offer your gratitude for food?
