Saruga Shrine (Akita Prefecture, Kazuno City) Complete Guide | The Legend and History of General Tamichi
Saruga Shrine, located in Sarugahira, Towada Nishikigi, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is a venerable ancient shrine that preserves the history of northern Tohoku. It is a different shrine from the Saruga Shrine of the same name in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture. The Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City is known as the site where General Tamichi died in battle and has been carefully preserved by the local people. This article provides a detailed introduction to the shrine’s history, enshrined deities, legends, and visiting information.
Basic Information on Saruga Shrine
Location and Access
Location: Sarugahira, Towada Nishikigi, Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture
Kazuno City is located in the northeastern part of Akita Prefecture, bordering Aomori and Iwate Prefectures, and is a strategic point in northern Tohoku. Blessed with abundant nature, this region has been inhabited by people since ancient times, fostering a unique culture and legends. Saruga Shrine is one of the important places that tells the history of Kazuno.
Deities Enshrined
Three deities are enshrined at Saruga Shrine.
- Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto: Known as the god of opening paths, he bestows divine virtues of guidance and good fortune.
- Tamichi-Shogun: This refers to Kamitsukeno-no-Kimi Tamichi-no-Mikoto, a warrior deeply connected to this region.
- Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto: Worshipped as the goddess of performing arts and pacification of spirits.
This combination of three deities reflects the historical background of this region, encompassing guidance, martial prowess, and pacification of spirits.
Founding and History of Saruga Shrine
Founded in 1572
Saruga Shrine is said to have been founded in 1572. In this year, the shrine building was constructed in Sarugano-Gokenya village. During this period, which coincided with the end of the Sengoku period (Warring States period), the Kazuno region was under the control of the Nanbu clan. It is believed that the shrine was founded to pray for the peace and prosperity of the region and for a bountiful harvest.
A shrine name marker, erected on October 29, 1994, still stands on the shrine grounds, commemorating the shrine’s history.
Site of General Tamichi’s Death
Within the grounds of Saruga Shrine lies an important historical site: “Historical Site of General Tamichi’s Death.” This dates back to an event in 367 AD (the 55th year of Emperor Nintoku’s reign), far older than the shrine’s founding.
Kamitsukenu no Kimi Tamichi no Mikoto, dispatched by the imperial court as a general, went to this area to pacify the Emishi of Kazuno. However, it is said that he died in battle at this location after a fierce fight.
This historical fact is deeply connected to the origin of the place name Kazuno, and it is believed that “Kazuno” evolved into “Kazuno.” To commemorate the achievements and sacrifices of General Tamichi, a shrine was built in this area, and the general was enshrined as the deity.
The Legend of General Tamichi and the History of Kazuno
The Battle Against the Emishi in Kazuno
In the late 4th century, as the Yamato court expanded its influence into the Tohoku region, Kazuno became a crucial stage. General Tamichi was dispatched to this area by imperial decree and engaged in battle against the Emishi, the people who lived in the region at the time.
In the 55th year of Emperor Nintoku’s reign (367 AD), General Tamichi perished in this fierce battle. This event is not merely a record of a battle, but is considered an important historical fact for understanding the relationship between the central government and local forces, and the history of the Tohoku region.
Numerous Legends of Kazuno City
Besides the legend of General Tamichi, Kazuno City is home to many other legends. In this region, rich in natural beauty, legends of giant snakes, mountain gods, and mysterious miraculous tales have been passed down alongside unique festivals and customs.
Legends related to Saruga Shrine include the legend of its construction to appease the spirit of General Tamichi, and tales of a mysterious phenomenon that appeared during battle. These legends demonstrate the faith of the local people and their deep respect for the history of this land.
Many tourist spots have some connection to these legends. When visiting Kazuno, reflecting on these legends as you explore the area will enrich your travel experience.
Relationship with Saruga Shrine in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture
Two Saruga Shrines
A search for “Saruga Shrine” often yields results for the Saruga Shrine in Hirakawa City (formerly Onoe Town), Aomori Prefecture. This is a major shrine known for the “Saruga Shrine Fifteen-Night Grand Festival,” the largest festival in Tsugaru, and enshrines Kamitsukeno-no-kimi Tadochi-no-Mikoto as its principal deity.
The Saruga Shrine in Hirakawa City has a history dating back to 793 AD, when the Shogun Sakanoue no Tamuramaro received a divine revelation and temporarily relocated the shrine to Sarugano. It was then permanently moved to its current location in 807 AD by imperial decree. The shrine is a center of faith in the Tsugaru region, where Tsugaru Kagura, a prefectural intangible folk cultural property, is performed.
Uniqueness of the Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City
On the other hand, the Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is built on the site where General Tadochi is believed to have actually died in battle. While the Saruga Shrine in Hirakawa City was built later to enshrine the spirit of General Tadochi, the Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City holds historical significance as the actual site of his death.
While both shrines share the common deity General Tamichi, they have each played distinct roles and histories. Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City has functioned more closely tied to the local community, serving as a place to appease the spirit of General Tamichi and pray for peace and prosperity in the region.
Saruga Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Features of the Shrine Building
Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City is a small, tranquil shrine. While maintaining the traditional style of shrine architecture, the building is constructed to suit the local climate and environment. It has been carefully maintained by local people for many years amidst the harsh natural environment of northern Tohoku.
The grounds are neatly maintained, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors. Unlike large urban shrines, it offers a simple and warm space.
Value as a Historic Site
The sign “Historical Site: Site of General Tamichi’s Death” indicates that this place is not merely a shrine, but the site of a historical event that occurred over 1600 years ago. This historical site is considered important for studying the history of the ancient Tohoku region.
The fact that a specific date, the 55th year of Emperor Nintoku’s reign (367 AD), is preserved in tradition speaks to the strength of the historical memory transmission in this region.
Surrounding Natural Environment
The area around Saruga Shrine is surrounded by the rich nature typical of northern Tohoku. The scenery is beautiful throughout the seasons, and the beauty of the nature surrounding the shrine is particularly striking during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves.
Kazuno City is close to Lake Towada and Hachimantai, and is known as a place where you can enjoy magnificent nature. By visiting these tourist spots in conjunction with a visit to Saruga Shrine, you can experience the nature and history of northern Tohoku simultaneously.
About Kazuno City
Kazuno: A Key Point in Northern Tohoku
Kazuno City is located at the northeastern tip of Akita Prefecture, bordering Aomori and Iwate Prefectures, making it a key point in northern Tohoku. The majority of the city area is mountainous, and it is blessed with abundant nature. The western shore of Lake Towada is also included in Kazuno City and is known as a tourist destination.
This region, long known as “Kazuno,” has been inhabited since the Jomon period, and important archaeological sites such as the Oyu Stone Circle remain. Historically, it was under the rule of the Nanbu clan and prospered through mining and forestry.
Culture and Climate of Kazuno
Kazuno City has a unique culture. “Hanawa Bayashi” is known as one of Japan’s three great festival music traditions, and at the Hanawa Festival held every August, magnificent floats parade through the town.
Kazuno City is also known as the birthplace of “kiritanpo” (rice cakes) and is a treasure trove of local cuisine. Dishes utilizing the bounty of the mountains and rivers nurtured by the rich natural environment captivate visitors.
Tourist Attractions in Kazuno
Besides Saruga Shrine, Kazuno City has many other sights to see.
- Oyu Stone Circle: A large-scale stone circle from the late Jomon period, designated as a National Special Historic Site.
- Lake Towada: A beautiful lake known as a caldera lake, where you can enjoy activities such as sightseeing boats and canoeing.
- Hanawa Ski Resort: A popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in winter.
- Oyu Onsenkyo: A historic hot spring resort where you can relax and unwind.
Points to Note and Manners When Visiting
Basic Manners for Visiting
When visiting Saruga Shrine, please observe the following basic manners.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: This is an important courtesy before entering the sacred area.
- Avoid the center of the approach: The center is considered the path of the gods.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: Purify your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Two bows, two claps, one bow: This is the general etiquette for visiting a shrine.
- Worship quietly: Be mindful that this is a sacred place.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking pictures inside the shrine building or towards the deity. Also, please be considerate of other worshippers and take pictures quietly.
Clothing and Belongings
There are no specific dress code requirements, but please dress appropriately for a sacred place like a shrine. Insect repellent is necessary in summer, and warm clothing is necessary in winter. Kazuno City is a snowy area, so sufficient cold weather gear is necessary for winter visits.
How to Access Saruga Shrine
Access by Car
Access to Kazuno City is convenient by car.
- Tohoku Expressway: Approximately 15 minutes from Kazuno Hachimantai IC
- From Aomori: Via National Route 103
- From Morioka: Via National Route 282
The shrine has parking space for visitors, but it is not large, so please be considerate of others.
Access by Public Transportation
- JR Hanawa Line: Get off at Kazuno Hanawa Station, then approximately 20 minutes by taxi
- Route Bus: Since the number of buses is limited, it is recommended to check the timetable in advance.
Because public transportation is infrequent, you may want to consider renting a car.
Combining with Nearby Sightseeing
We also recommend visiting the following sightseeing spots in conjunction with your visit to Saruga Shrine.
- Lake Towada: Approximately 30 minutes by car, a representative scenic spot of northern Tohoku.
- Oyu Stone Circle: Approximately 20 minutes by car, where you can experience Jomon culture.
- Hanawa Town: The center of Kazuno, where you can enjoy dining and shopping.
Saruga Shrine and the Four Seasons of Kazuno
Saruga Shrine in Spring
Spring, which arrives with the melting snow, is a beautiful season of fresh greenery. The trees in the shrine grounds bud, and the atmosphere is full of vitality. From April to May, the contrast between the remaining snow and the fresh greenery is magnificent.
Saruga Shrine in Summer
In the lush green summer, Saruga Shrine is a pleasant space where a cool breeze blows through. In August, the Hanawa Bayashi festival is held in Kazuno City, and the entire area is enveloped in the excitement of the festival.
Saruga Shrine in Autumn
The autumn foliage season is when the area around Saruga Shrine is most beautifully colored. From mid-October to early November, trees dyed in red and yellow envelop the shrine, creating a fantastical landscape.
Saruga Shrine in Winter
Saruga Shrine, covered in snow during winter, exudes a mystical atmosphere enveloped in silence. Snowfall can exceed one meter at its heaviest, and the shrine buildings standing amidst this silvery world evoke a solemn beauty.
Visiting Shrines and Temples in Kazuno City
Besides Saruga Shrine, there are other shrines and temples in Kazuno City worth visiting.
Koinari Shrine
Popular as a shrine for matchmaking, featuring cute guardian cats and stone statues of Akita dogs. Its highly popular goshuin (shrine stamps), available in four types plus limited-time designs, attracts visitors from all over Japan and is well-known among goshuin enthusiasts.
Other Temples and Shrines
There are many other historical temples and shrines scattered throughout Kazuno City, each with its own unique history and charm. Visiting shrines and temples will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of Kazuno’s history and culture.
Significance of Visiting Saruga Shrine
A Visit to Experience History
Visiting Saruga Shrine is not merely sightseeing; it’s a valuable experience that allows you to reflect on history from over 1600 years ago. You can feel deep respect for the fact that General Tamichi risked his life to pacify this land, and for how the local people have cherished and passed down his achievements to this day.
Local Faith and Culture
Although a small shrine, Saruga Shrine has been cherished for many years as the center of faith for the local people. It has also functioned as a place that fosters connections among people through local festivals and events.
Even today, this shrine plays an important role in supporting the local identity as a symbol of Kazuno City’s history and culture.
Summary: The Value of Visiting Saruga Shrine
Saruga Shrine in Kazuno City, Akita Prefecture, is not as well-known as the shrine of the same name in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture, but it is a shrine of historical importance as the site where General Tamichi died in battle, and of value as a place of worship deeply rooted in the community.
Since its founding in 1572, this shrine has been carefully preserved by the local people. It enshrines three deities: Sarutahiko-no-Mikoto, General Tamichi, and Ame-no-Utsume-no-Mikoto, and possesses diverse divine virtues related to opening paths, martial prowess, and performing arts.
From the ancient event of General Tamichi’s death in 367 AD (the 55th year of Emperor Nintoku’s reign), to the construction of the shrine during the Sengoku period, and up to the present day, this place is an important spot that embodies the history of Kazuno.
Saruga Shrine, surrounded by the rich nature of northern Tohoku, can be visited amidst the beautiful scenery of the four seasons. When visiting Kazuno City, be sure to stop by this historic shrine and experience the passage of time since ancient times and the deep faith of the local people. Combining a visit with other attractions such as Lake Towada and the Oyu Stone Circles will make for a more fulfilling trip through northern Tohoku.
As you pray in the tranquil shrine grounds, you will surely feel the thoughts of General Tamichi, who fought here over 1600 years ago, and the prayers of the people who have protected this shrine throughout its long history.
