Complete Guide to Kasuga Shrine (Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture)
Kasuga Shrine, located in Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, is a historic shrine that has been revered by the local people since ancient times as the principal shrine of the 26 villages of Kote. This guide provides a detailed introduction to the charm of this shrine, steeped in history and culture, including its shrine buildings completed in the mid-Edo period, the ancient trees within its grounds, and its traditional annual festival.
Basic Information about Kasuga Shrine
Location and Address
Shrine Building Location
45 Kaminomachi, Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-8153
Shrine Office Location
30 Hayashinouchi, Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture
Telephone Number
024-546-5269
Corporate Number
6380005000704
Access Methods
Access by Train
Approximately 18 minutes on foot (approx. 1.4 km) from JR Tohoku Main Line “Minami-Fukushima Station”
Access by Bus
Approximately 3 minutes on foot (approx. 190 m) from “Enokidaira Bus Stop”
Access by Car
Approximately 10 minutes by car from Fukushima Station
Approximately 15 minutes from Tohoku Expressway “Fukushima-Nishi IC”
Parking is available on the shrine grounds, so you can visit by car. During events such as the annual festival, congestion is expected, so we recommend using public transportation.
History and Origins of Kasuga Shrine
Legend of its Founding
A mystical legend surrounds the founding of Kasuga Shrine. It is said that when Chunagon Yamakage-kyo (a descendant of Fujiwara no Kamatari) was attacked by a mountain monkey in the mountains, a white deer appeared and saved his life. Afterward, following a divine message, he is said to have built Kasuga Shrine in this location.
This legend of the white deer has a deep connection to Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara, demonstrating its connection to the deer, the divine messenger of Kasuga Taisha Shrine.
As the Main Shrine of the 26 Villages of Kote
Kasuga Shrine has long served as the main shrine of the 26 villages of Kote, attracting faith from a wide area. A “main shrine” refers to a central shrine that oversees multiple shrines in a specific region.
Thanks to the cooperation of the parishioners of the Shinobu-Tachi district (the area around present-day Fukushima City), this shrine has been maintained and developed over a long history, playing an important role as the spiritual center of the local community.
Construction of the Shrine Building in the Edo Period
The current shrine building was completed in the mid-Edo period, and a relocation ceremony was held. This construction was realized through the cooperation of all the parishioners of the Shinobu-Tachi district, demonstrating the importance of the shrine to the local community at that time.
The shrine building, which preserves the architectural style of the Edo period, has high historical value and is carefully preserved as a cultural property of Fukushima City.
Deities and Benefits
Main Deity
The deity enshrined at Kasuga Shrine is Kasuga-no-kami (Kasuga-no-Okami), the same as at Kasuga Taisha in Nara. Kasuga Shrine is a collective term for the following four deities:
- Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto – Deity of Kashima Shrine in Hitachi Province
- Futsunushi-no-Mikoto – Deity of Katori Shrine in Shimosa Province
- Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto – Ancestral deity of the Nakatomi clan (Fujiwara clan)
- Himegami – Consort of Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto
Benefits and Divine Virtues
Kasuga Shrine is believed to offer the following benefits:
- Family Safety – Health and peaceful living for the family
- Protection from Misfortune and Disaster – Protection from all kinds of calamities
- Long-lasting Military Fortune – Divine virtues of Takemikazuchi-no-Mikoto and Futsunushi-no-Mikoto as gods of war
- Academic Success – Divine virtues of Amenokoyane-no-Mikoto as a god of wisdom
- Good Fortune and Prosperity – Bringing good luck and happiness
- Traffic Safety – Praying for safe travels and accident-free journeys
- Business Prosperity – Development and success of businesses
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
Shrine Architecture
The shrine buildings, constructed in the mid-Edo period, are valuable cultural assets that convey the architectural techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of that time. Both the main hall and the worship hall maintain the style of traditional shrine architecture, and the detailed decorations and carvings are magnificent.
Ancient Trees on the Shrine Grounds
The grounds of Kasuga Shrine are home to numerous ancient trees that tell the story of its long history:
- Japanese Cedar (Sugi) – Standing tall as a sacred tree protecting the sacred area
- Ginkgo (Icho) – Turns golden in autumn, creating a beautiful sight
- Japanese Torreya (Kaya) – A rare evergreen tree
- Zelkova (Keyaki) – Spreads its branches powerfully
- Camellia (Tsubaki) – Blooms in early spring
Some of these ancient trees boast an age of several hundred years, living witnesses that have grown alongside the history of the shrine. The nature on the grounds, which shows different expressions in each of the four seasons, soothes the hearts of visitors.
Sacred Atmosphere
The shrine grounds are enveloped in a tranquil and sacred atmosphere, providing a space where one can find peace of mind despite being in an urban area. Walking along the path surrounded by ancient trees, one naturally feels a sense of purification. ## Annual Festival and Regular Events
Kuroiwa Kasuga Shrine Annual Festival
The most important festival of Kasuga Shrine is the annual festival, held every year on the third Saturday and Sunday of October.
Date
Every year on the third Saturday and Sunday of October (2 days)
Main Events
- Shinto Ritual – A solemn ceremony is held
- Kagura Dedication – Traditional dances are performed before the gods
- Portable Shrine Procession – The portable shrine is paraded through the community (held depending on the year)
- Offering Performances – Various offerings by local people
At the annual festival, traditional Kagura and dances are offered, making it a place for the transmission of traditional performing arts. It is an important event where people from the community gather to express gratitude to the gods and pray for the prosperity of the community.
Other Annual Events
- New Year’s Day Festival (January 1st) – A festival celebrating the New Year
- Setsubun Festival (around February 3rd) – Exorcising evil spirits through bean-throwing
- Spring Festival – Celebrating the arrival of spring
- Summer Purification Ceremony (June 30th) – Purifying oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past six months
- Shichi-Go-San Ceremony (November) – Celebrating the growth of children
- Year-End Purification Ceremony (December 31st) – Purifying oneself of the impurities accumulated over the past year
About Prayers and Ceremonies
Various Prayers
Kasuga Shrine accepts prayers for various milestones in life and for specific wishes:
Prayers for Individuals and Families
- Prayers for Exorcism
- Prayers for Family Safety
- Prayers for Traffic Safety
- Prayers for Safe Childbirth
- First Shrine Visit for a Newborn
- Shichi-Go-San (7-5-3) Ceremony
- Prayer for Passing Exams/Academic Success
- Recovery from Illness
- Prayer for a Good Relationship
Prayers for Business and Commerce
- Prayer for Business Prosperity
- Prayer for Business Thriving
- Prayer for Company Prosperity
Prayer Reception
If you wish to have a prayer performed, please contact the shrine office (024-546-5269) in advance. Reservations may be required, so please consult with us regarding your visit date and time.
On-site Ceremonies and Groundbreaking Ceremonies
Kasuga Shrine also offers various on-site ceremonies:
Groundbreaking Ceremony
Before construction begins, the gods of the land are appeased, and prayers are offered for the safety of the construction and the prosperity of the building. We handle all types of construction, including houses, shops, and factories.
Roof-Raising Ceremony
This ceremony is held when the framework of the building is completed.
Completion Ceremony
This ceremony celebrates the completion of the building and prays for future safety and prosperity. Other On-Site Ceremonies
- Purification and Cleansing of Shinto Altars
- Well Digging and Well Filling Ceremonies
- Demolition Purification Ceremonies
- Purification Ceremonies for Shops and Offices
If you wish to request an on-site ceremony, please contact the shrine office to discuss the date, time, location, and type of ceremony.
Shinto Funeral Ceremonies
Kasuga Shrine also conducts Shinto funeral ceremonies (Shinto-style funerals) in accordance with Shinto rituals. Unlike Buddhist funerals, Shinto funeral ceremonies send off the deceased according to unique Shinto practices.
We also accept consultations regarding Shinto funeral ceremonies at the shrine office, so please feel free to contact us.
About Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Issuance of Goshuin (Shrine Seals)
Kasuga Shrine issues Goshuin (shrine seals). Goshuin are cherished as proof of worship and as a symbol of connection with the shrine.
Goshuin (Shrine Stamp) Reception Location
Shrine Office (30 Hayashinouchi, Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture)
Reception Hours
Please inquire at the shrine office (024-546-5269)
When receiving a goshuin, please bring your goshuincho (stamp book). Since it is customary to receive a goshuin after visiting the shrine, please complete your prayers first before coming to the shrine office.
How to Enjoy a Goshuin Pilgrimage
Besides Kasuga Shrine, there are many other shrines in Fukushima City, making it a great place to enjoy a goshuin pilgrimage. Starting from Kuroiwa Kasuga Shrine and visiting surrounding shrines is also recommended.
Surrounding Shrines and Related Shrines
Shrines of Sunakatabe
Kasuga Shrine, as the central shrine of the Sunakatabe region, has connections with several surrounding shrines:
Mizukumo Shrine
One of the shrines located in the Sunakatabe region
Shinmei Shrine
A shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami
Nitta Shrine
Worshipped as the guardian deity of the region
Sugawa Nangū Suwa Shrine
A shrine dedicated to Suwa Ōkami
These shrines once formed a network of regional faiths centered around Kasuga Shrine.
Differences from Okabe Kasuga Shrine
There is another Kasuga Shrine in Fukushima City called “Okabe Kasuga Shrine.” Okabe Kasuga Shrine is located on a small hill along the Abukuma River, about 15 minutes by car northeast of Fukushima Station, and was known as the guardian of the northeast direction (demon’s gate) of Fukushima Castle during the Edo period.
Please note that Kuroiwa Kasuga Shrine and Okabe Kasuga Shrine are different shrines, so please be careful when visiting or making inquiries.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Before Passing Through the Torii Gate
- Bow before the torii gate.
- Avoid walking in the center of the path (the center is the path of the gods).
How to Purify Yourself at the Water Basin
- Hold the ladle in your right hand and purify your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Purify your left hand once more.
- Cleanse the handle of the ladle by holding it upright, and return it to its original place.
Worship at the Main Hall
- Quietly place your offering in the offering box.
- Ring the bell if there is one.
- Two bows, two claps, one bow.
- Bow deeply twice.
- Clap twice.
- Pray sincerely.
- Bow deeply once.
Attire for Visiting a Shrine
Everyday clothes are acceptable, but clean and subdued attire is preferred. For those receiving prayers, more formal attire is appropriate.
Regarding Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please observe the following:
- Do not take photos in areas where photography is prohibited, such as inside the main hall.
- Refrain from taking photos during ceremonies, or follow the instructions of the Shinto priests.
- Be considerate of other worshippers.
- Post on social media with moderation.
The Four Seasons of Kasuga Shrine
Spring (March-May)
The cherry blossoms and camellias on the shrine grounds are in bloom, and the fresh greenery is beautiful. The Spring Festival is held, allowing you to feel the breath of new life.
Summer (June-August)
The shrine grounds, covered in lush greenery, are enveloped in a cool, refreshing air. The Summer Purification Ceremony cleanses away the impurities of the past six months, allowing you to begin the second half of the year with a refreshed spirit.
Autumn (September-November)
The annual festival in October is the busiest time of year. The ginkgo trees turn golden, and the shrine grounds are enveloped in the colors of autumn. Many families visit for Shichi-Go-San (a traditional Japanese rite of passage for children).
Winter (December-February)
In the tranquil shrine grounds, the solemn New Year’s Eve purification ceremony and the New Year’s Day festival are held. The snow-covered shrine buildings and ancient trees present a mystical beauty.
Connection with the Community
Center of the Community
Kasuga Shrine is not merely a religious facility; it has functioned as the spiritual center of the local community. Annual events, including the annual festival, provide opportunities for local people to gather and deepen their bonds.
Preservation of Traditional Culture
The Kagura and dances performed at the annual festival are carefully preserved as traditional performing arts of the region. Efforts are also being made to pass on these techniques to younger generations, ensuring that the flame of culture does not die out.
Activities of the Parishioners’ Organization
Kasuga Shrine, supported by the parishioners of Shinobu and Tachi districts, continues to have its parishioners’ organization involved in the maintenance and management of the shrine and the operation of festivals.
Requests to Visitors
Manners on the Shrine Grounds
- Maintain silence and refrain from loud conversations.
- Take all trash with you.
- Smoking is permitted only in designated areas.
- Please be considerate of others if you bring a pet.
- Do not damage the plants or facilities on the shrine grounds.
Parking Information
During busy times such as the annual festival, please use public transportation whenever possible. If you come by car, please park in the designated area to avoid inconveniencing local residents.
Inquiries about Kasuga Shrine
Contact Information
Shrine Office
30 Hayashinouchi, Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture 960-8153
Phone: 024-546-5269
Inquiries Accepted
- Reservations and consultations for prayers
- Requests for off-site ceremonies and ground-breaking ceremonies
- Consultations regarding Shinto funeral rites
- Schedules for events such as the annual festival
- Hours for issuing Goshuin (shrine seals)
- Other general inquiries
Official Website
The official website of Kuroiwa Kasuga Shrine (https://kuroiwakasuga.com/) provides the latest information and announcements. We recommend checking it before your visit.
Summary
Kasuga Shrine, located in Kuroiwa, Fukushima City, Fukushima Prefecture, has a long history as the main shrine of the 26 villages of Kote and has been deeply loved by the local people. Kasuga Shrine boasts numerous attractions, including its shrine buildings constructed in the mid-Edo period, ancient trees adorning the grounds, and traditional annual festivals.
It offers various blessings, such as family safety, protection from evil, and academic success, making it a shrine worth visiting at important milestones in life. When visiting Fukushima City, be sure to visit Kasuga Shrine and experience its history and sacred atmosphere.
The time spent calming your mind in the tranquil grounds and offering gratitude and prayers to the gods will be a precious moment that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Why not have a special pilgrimage experience at Kasuga Shrine, which displays different expressions in each of the four seasons?
