Wainai Shrine (Akita Prefecture) Complete Guide | The History and Charm of a Shrine Dedicated to a Great Figure in the Fish Farming Industry, Standing on the Shores of Lake Towada
Wainai Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Towada in Kosaka-machi, Kazuno-gun, Akita Prefecture, is a shrine dedicated to Sadayuki Wainai and his wife Katsuko, who successfully developed the Himemasu (landlocked salmon) farming business in Lake Towada from the Meiji to Taisho periods. Surrounded by the beautiful natural scenery of the lakeshore, this shrine is a precious place that conveys gratitude and respect to the pioneers who contributed to the development of the region.
History and Origins of Wainai Shrine
Circumstances of its Founding and the Transition from Katsuryo Shrine to Wainai Shrine
The founding of Wainai Shrine dates back to 1908 (Meiji 41). Initially, it was built as “Katsuryo Shrine” and was a shrine where prayers were offered for the success of fishing and aquaculture businesses in Lake Towada. Later, in 1933 (Showa 8), the shrine was renamed “Waiuchi Shrine,” and it took its current form as a shrine dedicated to both Sadayuki Wainai, who dedicated his life to the development of Lake Towada, and his wife, Katsuko, who provided invaluable support.
It received formal approval from the Association of Shinto Shrines on November 20, 1946 (Showa 21), and since then, it has remained a beloved shrine for the local community.
The Life and Achievements of Sadayuki Wainai
Sadayuki Wainai was born in 1858 (Ansei 5) and dedicated his life to the development of Lake Towada until his death at the age of 65 in 1922 (Taisho 11). Sadayuki Wainai, who held the rank of Junior Seventh Rank and revered Kotoshironushi-no-kami (Ebisu-sama) day and night, started a successful landlocked salmon (kokanee salmon) farming business in Lake Towada during the Meiji era.
At that time, Lake Towada, while possessing beautiful scenery, was a lake with poor fishery resources. Sadayuki Wainai persevered through numerous trials and errors, and attempted to transplant landlocked salmon eggs from Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido. This challenge was fraught with difficulties, but thanks to Sadayuki Wainai’s indomitable spirit and skill, he finally succeeded in cultivating landlocked salmon in Lake Towada.
The Supportive Wife, Katsuko
Behind Sadayuki Wainai’s great achievements was the devoted support of his wife, Katsuko. The success of the farming business required immense effort and patience, and Katsuko continued to support her husband throughout. After Mr. Sadayuki Wainai passed away on May 16, 1922, the people living by the lake deeply mourned his death and decided to enshrine Princess Katsuko, who had been a supportive wife, alongside him.
By enshrining the couple together, Wainai Shrine became not merely a place to honor a great man, but also a shrine that conveys the importance of marital bonds and cooperation.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Main Deity: Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto (Ebisu)
The main deity of Wainai Shrine is Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto. Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto is commonly known as “Ebisu” and is worshipped as the god of business prosperity, protection of fisheries, and abundant harvests. Mr. Sadayuki Wainai deeply revered this deity during his lifetime, and the success of his aquaculture business is believed to have been due to the protection of Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto.
Enshrined Deities: Sadayuki Wainai and his wife, Katsuko
Along with the main deity, Sadayuki Wainai and his wife, Katsuko, are enshrined. They are revered as the ancestors of Lake Towada’s prosperity, guardians of regional development, and gods of industrial promotion. Their contributions, particularly laying the foundation for the important regional industry of kokanee salmon farming, are still appreciated by many people today.
Divine Virtues
The divine virtues of Wainai Shrine include the following:
- Industrial Development and Business Success: In honor of the achievements of Mr. Sadayuki, who successfully established an aquaculture business, people visit to pray for the development of new businesses and industries.
- Business Prosperity: Many worshippers pray for business prosperity, thanks to the divine virtues of Kotoshironushi-no-Mikoto.
- Marital Harmony and Family Safety: Some pray for marital harmony, inspired by the Wainai couple who achieved great things through their cooperation.
- Protection of Fisheries and Prayers for Abundant Catch: As the guardian deity of fishing and aquaculture, it attracts the faith of those involved in these industries.
Highlights and Features of the Shrine Grounds
Scenic Location Overlooking Lake Towada
One of the greatest attractions of Wainai Shrine is its location. Situated in the Okawadai district on the shores of Lake Towada, the shrine grounds offer beautiful views of Lake Towada. From the fresh greenery of spring, the deep green of summer, the vibrant autumn foliage, to the snowy winter landscapes, this place is beloved by both worshippers and tourists alike for its seasonal natural beauty.
A Shrine Enveloped in Silence
The shrine building of Wainai Shrine, though simple, possesses a solemn atmosphere. While lacking ostentatious decorations, its harmonious blend with the natural beauty of Lake Towada provides visitors with a profound sense of peace. Although maintenance may be insufficient at times in recent years, it remains carefully preserved by the local community.
The Surrounding Natural Environment
The area surrounding the shrine is blessed with abundant nature, and visitors can enjoy a stroll along the Lake Towada West Shore Promenade. Visiting Wainai Shrine while walking along the lakeside promenade will allow you to feel the history and nature of this place even more deeply.
Access and Basic Information
Location
Address: 90-1 Okawadai, Towadako, Kosaka-machi, Kazuno-gun, Akita Prefecture 018-5511
Transportation Access
By Public Transportation:
- Approximately 30 minutes by bus from JR Hanawa Line “Towada-Minami Station”
- Accessible on foot from the nearest bus stop
By Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from Tohoku Expressway “Kosaka IC”
- Located along the national highway on the shore of Lake Towada, making it relatively easy to access
*Please note that road conditions may change due to snowfall in winter; we recommend checking in advance.
Visiting Hours and Admission Fee
- Visiting Hours: Generally open to visitors (daytime visits recommended)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Parking available nearby (details need to be confirmed on-site)
Inquiries
For detailed information, please contact the Akita Prefectural Shrine Association or the Kosaka Town Tourism Association.
The History of Lake Towada and Himemasu (Sockeye Salmon) Farming
Characteristics of Lake Towada
Lake Towada is a double caldera lake spanning Aomori and Akita prefectures, boasting a maximum depth of approximately 327 meters, making it one of Japan’s deepest lakes. Known for its high transparency and beautiful scenery, it was once a lake with limited fish resources.
The Challenge of Himemasu Farming
Himemasu (Sockeye Salmon) are a type of sockeye salmon that have become landlocked and spend their entire lives in freshwater. They are known as a delicious food fish. During the Meiji era, Sadayuki Wainai embarked on a project to transplant kokanee salmon eggs from Lake Shikotsu in Hokkaido to Lake Towada.
Transporting and hatching the eggs was extremely difficult with the technology available at the time, and he faced numerous failures. However, Mr. Wainai persevered with his research and practical work. As a result, he finally succeeded in cultivating kokanee salmon in Lake Towada, establishing them as a new specialty of the lake.
Lake Towada and Kokanee Salmon Today
Today, kokanee salmon from Lake Towada, known as “Towada-ko Himemasu,” are a local specialty and play an important role as a tourist resource. Without the achievements of Sadayuki Wainai, Lake Towada might be very different today.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Lake Towada Sightseeing
When visiting Wainai Shrine, you can also enjoy sightseeing around Lake Towada:
- Sightseeing Boat: Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Lake Towada from the lake
- Statue of the Maiden: A famous bronze statue created by the poet Kotaro Takamura
- Lake Towada West Shore Promenade: A walking path where you can enjoy nature
- Yasumiya Area: The main tourist area of Lake Towada
Kosaka Town Sightseeing
- Kosaka Mine Office: A nationally important cultural property with Western-style architecture remaining from the Meiji era
- Kosaka Railway Rail Park: A facility where you can learn about the history of railways
- Korakukan: The oldest active theater
Nearby Hot Springs
There are several hot spring resorts around Lake Towada, perfect for relaxing after visiting the shrine:
- Lake Towada Hot Spring
- Yachi Hot Spring
- Tsuta Hot Spring
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
- Bow before passing through the torii gate: As a sign of respect before entering the sacred area, bow before the torii gate.
- Purify yourself at the water basin: If there is a water basin, purify your hands and mouth.
- Walk along the edge of the path: The center of the path is considered the path of the gods.
- Etiquette at the main hall: Two bows, two claps, and one bow are the basic rituals.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please be considerate of the interior of the shrine and other visitors. This shrine particularly values a tranquil atmosphere, so please be mindful of proper etiquette when taking photos.
The Significance of Visiting Wainai Shrine
Reflecting on the Achievements of Our Ancestors
Visiting Wainai Shrine is not merely sightseeing; it is a valuable opportunity to reflect on the achievements of our ancestors who contributed to the development of the region. The indomitable spirit of Mr. Sadayuki Wainai and the devoted support of his wife, Katsuko, offer many lessons for us living in the modern age.
Learning about the history of Lake Towada
Many tourists who visit Lake Towada enjoy its beautiful scenery, but by visiting Wainai Shrine, you can learn about the industrial history of Lake Towada and the history of the efforts of the local people. Understanding the lives of the people behind Lake Towada as a tourist destination will give you a deeper travel experience.
Peace of mind in tranquility
Nestled in the quiet environment of the shores of Lake Towada, Wainai Shrine is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find peace of mind. By quietly praying in the shrine grounds surrounded by nature, you can gain peace of mind and renewed vitality.
Wainai Shrine in the four seasons
Spring (April-June)
As the snow melts and new greenery sprouts, the shores of Lake Towada enter a season full of vitality. Spring visits are fitting for a time of new beginnings, and many people visit to pray for business success and new challenges.
Summer (July-September)
Lake Towada, enveloped in deep green, is one of the most beautiful seasons. Visiting the shrine while feeling the cool breeze from the lakeside makes you forget the summer heat. It’s also the tourist season, and the shrine is bustling with many visitors.
Autumn (October-November)
Lake Towada’s autumn foliage is famous throughout Japan, and the scenery of Wainai Shrine surrounded by fiery red leaves is exceptional. Autumn visits are also suitable for giving thanks for the year’s harvest and celebrating the bounty.
Winter (December-March)
In the silence of a snow-covered landscape, the solemn atmosphere is even more enhanced. Access can be difficult in winter due to snow, but the shrine amidst the snowscape possesses a mystical beauty.
Preservation and Future of Wainai Shrine
Challenges in Maintenance
In recent years, a shortage of manpower for maintenance has become a challenge for small, local shrines. Wainai Shrine is no exception, and there seem to be times when it is not adequately cared for. However, thanks to the dedication of local people and visitors to Lake Towada, this valuable historical heritage continues to be preserved.
Transmission of Local Culture
Wainai Shrine is not merely a religious facility; it is an important place that conveys the history and culture of the region. Passing on the achievements and spirit of Wainai Sadayuki to future generations is also connected to protecting the region’s identity.
Value as a Tourism Resource
As more people visit Wainai Shrine as part of their Lake Towada sightseeing, it is hoped that the shrine’s value will be re-recognized and interest in its preservation will increase. A sustainable maintenance of the shrine, balancing tourism and cultural property protection, is required.
Summary: A Recommendation to Visit Wainai Shrine
Wainai Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Towada in Kosaka Town, Akita Prefecture, is a historic shrine dedicated to Sadayuki Wainai, a pioneer in landlocked salmon farming, and his wife, Katsuko. Since its founding in 1908 (Meiji 41), this shrine has watched over the development of the region and remains a valuable reminder of the achievements of its predecessors.
In the tranquil grounds surrounded by the beautiful nature of Lake Towada, you can receive divine blessings for business success, industrial development, and marital harmony. When visiting Lake Towada, be sure to visit Wainai Shrine and experience the history and culture of this area.
Sadayuki Wainai’s indomitable spirit and the devotion of his wife, Katsuko, teach us the courage to face difficulties and the importance of mutual support. A visit to this shrine, along with the beautiful scenery of Lake Towada, and a reflection on the spirit of these ancestors, will surely be a memorable experience.
