About Kuzuharaoka Shrine
Kuzuharaoka Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Kajiwara, Kamakura City. Founded in 1887 (Meiji 20), it enshrines Hino Toshimoto, a court noble and poet who participated in a plot to overthrow the Kamakura Shogunate and was executed at this site in 1332 (Genko 2).
Located adjacent to Genjiyama Park and situated on a popular hiking trail in Kamakura, it boasts a tranquil atmosphere surrounded by nature. In recent years, it has also gained attention as a power spot for matchmaking.
Hino Toshimoto and Historical Background
Hino Toshimoto, as a close confidant of Emperor Go-Daigo, plotted to overthrow the Kamakura Shogunate, but the plan was discovered, and he was beheaded at Kuzuharaoka. He was 39 years old. During the Meiji era, he was re-evaluated as a person who showed unwavering loyalty to the Emperor, and a shrine was built on this execution site.
Points to Note During Your Visit
The Stone of Matchmaking
The most popular spot on the shrine grounds is the “Stone of Matchmaking”. It is believed that writing your wish on a heart-shaped ema (votive tablet) and tying it to the “Stone of Matchmaking,” where a male and female stone stand side by side, will bring good fortune in finding a partner.
How to Visit:
- Obtain a votive tablet for matchmaking (500 yen) at the shrine office.
- Write your wish.
- Tie the ema to the Stone of Matchmaking.
- Pray with two bows, two claps, and one bow.
The Stone of Demon Repelling
There is a cup-shaped stone named after the wordplay “Masaru” (meaning “to leave” or “to depart”). It is believed that throwing a cup at this stone and successfully breaking it brings protection from evil and misfortune, and many visitors try this.
Goshuin (Shrine Seal)
At the shrine office, in addition to the regular goshuin, seasonal limited-edition goshuin are also available. While mainly pre-printed, the careful calligraphy is highly regarded. The offering fee is usually 300 yen.
Benefits
The following benefits are believed to be received at Kuzuharaoka Shrine:
- Matchmaking and Successful Relationships: Love fulfillment through the matchmaking stone
- Academic Success: Because Hino Toshimoto was an excellent poet and scholar
- Protection from Evil and Misfortune: Protection from disaster through the evil-repelling stone
- Good Fortune and Prosperity: As a god of victory, due to the visits of patriots during the late Edo period
It is particularly popular with young women and couples, and is known for the constant reports of successful relationships.
Access
Access on Foot
From JR Kamakura Station:
- Via Zeniarai Benzaiten: Approximately 30 minutes on foot
- Via Genjiyama Hiking Course: Approximately 35 minutes on foot
From JR Kita-Kamakura Station:
- Via Jochi-ji Temple Hiking Course: Approximately 25 minutes on foot
As a Base for Hiking Courses
Kuzuharaoka Shrine is located midway along the Genjiyama Hiking Course, making it an ideal rest stop on the route from Kita-Kamakura towards Kamakura Station. Genjiyama Park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons, allowing you to enjoy nature walks and worship at the same time.
Points to Note
- Access by car is difficult (no parking available)
- Since you will be walking on a mountain path, comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers are recommended
- Be careful as the ground can be slippery in rainy weather
Basic Information
- Address: 5-9-1 Kajiwara, Kamakura City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Visiting Hours: Grounds are freely accessible (Shrine office is open from 9:00 to 16:00)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Phone: 0467-45-9002
Nearby Attractions
- Zeniarai Benzaiten: Approximately 10 minutes on foot, a famous spot for improving financial luck
- Genjiyama Park: Adjacent, famous for its cherry blossoms
- Sasuke Inari Shrine: Approximately 15 minutes on foot, a mystical shrine with a row of vermilion torii gates
- Jochi-ji Temple: A Zen temple, ranked fourth among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kamakura, is located about a 20-minute walk towards Kita-Kamakura.
