Yasaka Shrine (Fujisato Town, Yamamoto District, Akita Prefecture) Complete Guide | A Thorough Explanation of History, Deities, Access, and Surrounding Area Information
Yasaka Shrine, located in Fujisato Town, Yamamoto District, Akita Prefecture, is a shrine surrounded by a rich natural environment at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, a World Natural Heritage site. As one of the 1,055 Yasaka Shrines said to exist throughout Japan, it has been cherished by the local people. This article provides a thorough explanation of the history of Yasaka Shrine, its enshrined deities, the characteristics of its grounds, access methods, and the charm of Fujisato Town.
Basic Information on Yasaka Shrine (Fujisato Town)
Location and Contact Information
Location: 84 Hiyamizudai, Yasaka, Fujisato Town, Yamamoto District, Akita Prefecture 018-3204
Corporate Number: 1410005003889
Yasaka Shrine is located in the Yasaka area of Fujisato Town. Fujisato Town is located in the northwestern part of Akita Prefecture, a mountainous town near the border with Aomori Prefecture. Nestled in the blessed natural environment at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, this shrine has served as a spiritual center for the community.
Access
Access by Car:
- Approximately 30 minutes from the Noshiro-Minami Interchange on the Akita Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes by car from Futatsui Station on the JR Ou Main Line
- Accessible via National Route 7 and a prefectural road
Access by Public Transportation:
- After alighting at Futatsui Station on the JR Ou Main Line, take a bus or taxi
- Fujisato Town Community Bus is also available (check operating hours)
Because Fujisato Town is located in a mountainous area, access by car is convenient. Since it lies on the access route to the Shirakami Mountains, many people combine their visit with nature walks.
History and Origins of Yasaka Shrine
Establishment through the Merger of Shrines in 1910
The current Yasaka Shrine was established in 1910 (Meiji 43) through the merger of three shrines: Shinmei Shrine, Saruko Shrine, and Mayama Shrine. As part of the Meiji era’s policy of shrine consolidation, several local shrines were integrated, resulting in its current form.
This merger was carried out as part of the Meiji government’s “One Shrine Per Village” policy. Similar mergers progressed throughout Japan, creating a historical context of the consolidation and reorganization of local shrines.
About the Shrines Before the Merger
Shinmei Shrine: A shrine with Amaterasu Omikami as its principal deity, a type of shrine widely distributed throughout Japan. As a shrine connected to the Ise Grand Shrine lineage, it attracted the faith of local people.
Saruko Shrine: Considered a shrine based on unique local beliefs. The name “Saruko” suggests a connection to mountain worship or animal worship.
Mayama Shrine: This shrine is based on the Shinzan (mountain) faith, and a connection to the Shinzan Shrine on the Oga Peninsula is possible. It may have been deeply rooted in the region as a form of mountain worship.
The merger of these three shrines created the Yasaka Shrine, which possesses diverse religious elements.
Deities and Beliefs
Susanoo-no-Mikoto
The principal deity of Yasaka Shrine, as with all Yasaka Shrines throughout Japan, is Susanoo-no-Mikoto. Susanoo-no-Mikoto plays an important role in Japanese mythology and possesses the following characteristics:
God of Protection Against Plagues: In the Yasaka faith, with the Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine) in Kyoto as its head shrine, Susanoo-no-Mikoto has been worshipped as a god who wards off plagues and calamities.
God of Protection Against Evil: Despite its fierce nature, this deity ultimately protects people and is worshipped for protection against evil and disaster.
God of Agriculture: As seen in the myth of the slaying of Yamata no Orochi, this deity is deeply associated with water and is revered as a guardian deity of agriculture.
Deities Enshrined Together
It is believed that the deities of Amaterasu Omikami of Shinmei Shrine and the deities of Saruko Shrine and Mayama Shrine were enshrined together in 1910 (Meiji 43). Therefore, Fujisato-cho’s Yasaka Shrine has a unique character, blending multiple religious elements.
Relationship with Yasaka Shrines Nationwide
1,055 Yasaka Shrines Nationwide
There are approximately 1,055 shrines named Yasaka Shrine throughout Japan. These are all part of a network of shrines with Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine (Gion Shrine) as the head shrine.
Yasaka Shrines in Akita Prefecture:
- Yasaka Shrine in Kawabe Sannai, Akita City
- Yasaka Shrine in Daisen City (known for Tenno Shimizu spring)
- Yasaka Shrine in Hachimantai, Kazuno City
- Other shrines distributed throughout the prefecture
There are several Yasaka Shrines in Akita Prefecture, each functioning as a center of local faith.
Gion Faith and Yasaka Shrines
The faith of Yasaka Shrines is originally based on a form of faith called “Gion faith.” Gion faith began in Kyoto during the Heian period to quell an epidemic that was rampant, and it spread throughout Japan.
Due to the Meiji-era policy of separating Shinto and Buddhism, many shrines that had previously been called “Gion Shrine” or “Tenno Shrine” were renamed “Yasaka Shrine.” The Yasaka Shrine in Fujisato Town is also thought to have been established within this context.
Regional Characteristics of Fujisato Town and Yasaka Shrine
Location at the Foot of the Shirakami Mountains
Fujisato Town is known as the gateway to the Shirakami Mountains on the Akita Prefecture side, a World Natural Heritage site. The magnificent natural environment, with its vast primeval beech forests, is a major characteristic of this region.
Characteristics of the Shirakami Mountains:
- One of the world’s largest primeval beech forests
- Habitat for diverse flora and fauna
- Abundant water source area
- Beautiful scenery throughout the seasons
Yasaka Shrine is located within this rich natural environment, creating a space where nature and faith are in harmony.
History of the Yasaka District
The Yasaka district, where Yasaka Shrine is located, is a historic settlement within Fujisato Town. The place name “Yasaka” is thought to have origins related to its topography and history.
The sub-district name Hiyamizutai is also interesting. “Reisui” (冷水) likely means clear spring water or stream, while “Tai” (岱) may mean plateau. The geographical feature of a plateau blessed with abundant water resources may be reflected in the place name.
Shrine Grounds and Highlights
Shrine Grounds Surrounded by Nature
The grounds of Yasaka Shrine are surrounded by a lush forest. Located at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, beech and cedar trees surround the grounds, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Seasonal Highlights:
Spring: A beautiful season of fresh greenery. You can feel the strength of the budding.
Summer: The grounds, enveloped in deep green, are filled with cool air.
Autumn: The autumn leaves color the grounds, making it one of the most beautiful seasons.
Winter: The snow-covered grounds are enveloped in a solemn and mystical atmosphere.
Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
When visiting Yasaka Shrine, please follow the general etiquette for visiting a shrine.
- Bow before passing through the torii gate.
- Walk on the path, avoiding the center.
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin.
- Perform “two bows, two claps, one bow” in front of the main hall.
- After praying, turn around and bow before leaving the torii gate.
Fujisato Town Tourism and Yasaka Shrine
Major Tourist Spots in Fujisato Town
When visiting Yasaka Shrine, we recommend also visiting other tourist spots in Fujisato Town.
Shirakami Mountains World Heritage Center (Fujisato Hall): This facility allows you to learn about the nature and culture of the Shirakami Mountains. You can learn about the charm of the Shirakami Mountains through exhibits and videos.
Fujisato Komagatake: A mountain with an elevation of 1,158 meters, popular with mountain climbing enthusiasts. From the summit, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Shirakami Mountains.
Kasugegawa River: Known for its clear waters, it’s a great place for stream fishing and camping.
Tara Gorge: A scenic spot where unique rock formations and clear streams intertwine, with well-maintained walking trails.
Fujisato Town’s Gourmet Food and Local Products
Blessings of the Shirakami Mountains: Wild vegetables and mushrooms grown with the pure water of the Shirakami Mountains are exquisite.
Shirakami Maitake Mushrooms: A specialty of Fujisato Town, these maitake mushrooms are thick, meaty, and highly aromatic.
Shirakami Tofu: Tofu made with the groundwater of the Shirakami Mountains has a rich soybean flavor.
Local Sake: Akita Prefecture is a famous sake-producing region. You can also enjoy local sake made with water from the Shirakami Mountains.
Accommodation and Hot Springs
There are accommodations and hot spring facilities around Fujisato Town.
Accommodation in Fujisato Town: Primarily homey accommodations such as guesthouses and pensions.
Nearby Hot Spring Areas:
- Hot spring facilities in Noshiro City
- Hot springs in Futatsui Town
- Hot spring resorts in Odate City
After exploring the Shirakami Mountains or visiting Yasaka Shrine, relaxing in a hot spring is highly recommended.
Comparison with other Yasaka Shrines in Akita Prefecture
Yasaka Shrine in Kawabe Sannai, Akita City
Location: 49 Giondai, Kawabe Sannai, Akita City, Akita Prefecture
Corporate Number: 7410005001012
As the place name “Giondai” suggests, Yasaka Shrine in Akita City retains strong traces of Gion worship. Its proximity to the city center makes it easily accessible.
Yasaka Shrine in Daisen City
Yasaka Shrine in Daisen City is known for its spring water called “Tenno Shimizu.” The shrine grounds, where pure water springs forth, evoke a sense of connection between water and faith.
Yasaka Shrine in Hachimantai, Kazuno City
Known as a shrine for matchmaking, it also has an official website. They offer mail-order services for limited-edition amulets and goshuin (shrine stamps), catering to modern forms of worship.
Characteristics of Yasaka Shrine in Fujisato Town
Compared to the other Yasaka Shrines in Akita Prefecture, the Yasaka Shrine in Fujisato Town has the following characteristics:
- A naturally rich location at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains
- A clear history of establishment through the merger of three shrines in 1910 (Meiji 43)
- A tranquil atmosphere in a mountainous area
- A simple, community-oriented form of worship
Yasaka Shrine and the Local Community
Local Festivals and Events
It is believed that various festivals and events are held at Yasaka Shrine throughout the year. The following are some of the common festivals held at Yasaka Shrines throughout Japan:
Annual Grand Festival: Many Yasaka Shrines hold their annual grand festival in the summer. This festival originates from Kyoto’s Gion Festival and prays for protection against disease and a bountiful harvest.
New Year’s Day Festival: A festival held at the beginning of the new year to pray for peace throughout the year.
Autumn Grand Festival: A festival to give thanks for the harvest and pray for a good harvest in the following year.
For specific festival dates and details, we recommend contacting local residents or the town hall.
As a Center of the Community
Shrines have functioned not only as places of worship but also as centers of local communities. Yasaka Shrine also plays an important role as a place of interaction and spiritual support for the people of the Yasaka area.
Maintaining and managing shrines is a challenge in rural areas facing depopulation and an aging population, but traditions are being preserved through the efforts of local people.
Precautions and Manners for Visiting the Shrine
Basic Manners for Visiting the Shrine
Attire: Please be mindful that this is a sacred place and dress in clean and respectful attire.
Photography: Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please refrain from taking pictures inside the main hall or during religious ceremonies. If unsure, please check beforehand.
Noise: Please pray quietly and be considerate of other visitors.
Litter: To keep the shrine grounds clean, please take all your trash with you.
Consideration for the Natural Environment
Given its location at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, consideration for the natural environment is also important.
- Do not collect plants or animals
- Walk on designated paths
- Do not pollute nature
- Do not feed wild animals
Balancing the protection of the World Natural Heritage site with the preservation of the shrine’s traditions is required.
Shrines and Temples in the Surrounding Area
Major Shrines in Yamamoto District
Yamamoto District, including Fujisato Town, is dotted with other historical shrines.
Shrines in Mitane Town: Mitane Town (formerly Kotooka Town, Yamamoto Town, and Hachiryu Town) also has many shrines.
Shrines in Noshiro City: Noshiro City has many shrines, including Hiyoshi Shrine.
Relationship with Temples
Before the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, shrines and temples had a close relationship. Fujisato Town also has temples that support local faith. Visiting both shrines and temples allows for a deeper understanding of the history of local faith.
Detailed Access Information to Yasaka Shrine
Route from Akita City
- Head north on the Akita Expressway
- Exit at Noshiro-Minami Interchange
- Head north on National Route 7
- Turn onto the prefectural road towards Fujisato Town
- Head towards the Yasaka area
Estimated travel time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes from central Akita City
Route from Aomori Prefecture
- Head south on National Route 7
- Pass through Noshiro City
- Head towards Fujisato Town
- Head towards the Yasaka area
Car Navigation Settings
Address: 84 Hiyamizudai, Yasaka, Fujisato-machi, Yamamoto-gun, Akita Prefecture
Postal Code: 018-3204
Entering this information into your car navigation system will provide accurate route guidance. However, due to the mountainous terrain, it is recommended to use the latest map data.
Important Notes When Using Public Transportation
Public transportation is limited in frequency, so it is important to check the timetable in advance.
Fujisato Town Hall: 8 Fujikoto, Fujikoto, Fujisato-machi, Yamamoto-gun, Akita Prefecture 018-3201
Phone: 0185-79-2111 (Main)
You can get detailed information on the latest transportation and how to access the shrine by contacting the town hall.
Yasaka Shrine in Every Season
Yasaka Shrine in Spring (March-May)
As the snow melts, the shrine grounds are enveloped in fresh greenery. Wildflowers that herald the arrival of spring appear, making it a season full of vitality.
Highlights: The beauty of budding leaves, mountain cherry blossoms, spring mountain vegetables
Temperature: It can still be chilly on some days, so bring a jacket.
Summer at Yasaka Shrine (June-August)
The shrine grounds, covered in deep green, are filled with cool, refreshing air. The beech forests of the Shirakami Mountains are also at their most vibrant during this season.
Highlights: Deep green, clear streams, summer festival (depending on the time of year)
Caution: Don’t forget insect repellent.
Autumn at Yasaka Shrine (September-November)
The autumn foliage season is one of the most beautiful times to visit Yasaka Shrine. Trees dyed in red and yellow adorn the grounds.
Highlights: Autumn leaves, autumn harvest, crisp air
Best Season: Mid-October to early November
Winter at Yasaka Shrine (December-February)
The shrine grounds, covered in snow, are enveloped in silence. Even amidst the harsh winter, there is a sacred beauty.
Highlights: Snowscapes, winter tranquility, frost-covered trees
Important Note: Due to heavy snowfall, winter gear is essential. Road conditions must also be checked.
Highlights: ## Combination of Yasaka Shrine Visit and Shirakami Mountains Sightseeing
1-Day Model Course
Morning:
- 9:00 Visit Shirakami Mountains World Heritage Center (Fujisato Hall)
- 10:30 Visit Yasaka Shrine
- 11:30 Stroll around the Yasaka area
Afternoon:
- 12:30 Lunch in Fujisato Town (Shirakami Maitake mushroom dishes, etc.)
- 14:00 Nature walk in Tara Gorge or Kasugegawa River
- 16:00 Shopping at Michi-no-Eki Fujisato (Roadside Station Fujisato)
- 17:00 Hot springs in Noshiro City or Odate City
2-Day Course
Day 1:
- Arrive in Fujisato Town
- Visit Yasaka Shrine
- Stroll around Shirakami Mountains
- Overnight stay in Fujisato Town
Day 2:
- Climb Mt. Fujisato Komagatake or trek in Shirakami Mountains
- Hot springs
- Return trip
The Benefits and Faith of Yasaka Shrine
Main Benefits
The following are some of the benefits derived from Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the principal deity of Yasaka Shrine:
Protection from Evil and Disaster: Due to his fierce nature as a god, he is believed to have the power to ward off all kinds of disasters.
Protection from Plague: He offers the benefit of warding off plagues, which is the essence of Gion faith.
Matchmaking: Based on the myth of Susanoo-no-Mikoto and Kushinadahime, he also offers the benefit of matchmaking.
Abundant Harvest: Due to his nature as a god of agriculture, he is also worshipped for prayers for a bountiful harvest.
Business Prosperity: As a god who wards off disaster and brings good fortune, he also offers the benefit of business prosperity.
Benefits of the Enshrined Deities
Amaterasu Omikami (Originating from Shinmei Shrine): National peace and security, good fortune, fulfillment of all wishes
Deities of Saruko Shrine and Mayama Shrine: Protection of the region, safety of the mountains, harmony with nature
The fact that these diverse benefits can be obtained at a single shrine is a characteristic of Yasaka Shrine in Fujisato Town.
Corporate Number and Yasaka Shrine as a Religious Corporation
About the Corporate Number System
Yasaka Shrine’s corporate number is “1410005003889”. The corporate number system, introduced in October 2015, is a 13-digit number used to identify corporations and organizations.
Structure of Corporate Number:
- First digit: Check digit
- Next 5 digits: Legal Affairs Bureau code (41000 in the case of Akita Prefecture)
- Remaining 7 digits: Serial number within the registry office
Shrines as Religious Corporations
Shrines, as religious corporations, engage in the following activities:
- Performance of rituals
- Maintenance and management of shrine grounds
- Contribution to the local community
- Protection of cultural properties
- Preservation of traditional events
Appropriate management and operation are carried out in accordance with the Religious Corporations Act.
Yasaka Shrine and Local Culture
Fusion with Folk Beliefs
The faith of Yasaka Shrine is a fusion not only with the nationwide Yasaka faith but also with local folk beliefs.
Mountain God Worship: Given its location at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, a strong belief in mountain gods is thought to be present.
Water God Worship: As can be seen from the place name “Reisuidai,” there is also a belief in pure water.
Agricultural Beliefs: As part of Akita Prefecture, a major rice-producing region, prayers for a bountiful harvest are also important.
Shrine Culture of Akita Prefecture
Akita Prefecture has a unique shrine culture.
Namahage: A traditional event held at Shinzan Shrine on the Oga Peninsula, among other places.
Kanto Festival: A summer tradition in Akita City, where lanterns resembling rice stalks are offered.
Bonten Offering: A magnificent festival held in winter.
Yasaka Shrine in Fujisato Town also plays a part in this Akita Prefecture shrine culture.
Message to Visitors
Prayer in Silence
Yasaka Shrine is a simple shrine that hasn’t been commercialized for tourism. That’s precisely why you can offer a quiet prayer in silence.
Away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, you can have time to reflect on yourself in the shrine grounds surrounded by the rich nature of the Shirakami Mountains.
Harmony of Nature and Faith
Located at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, a World Natural Heritage site, Yasaka Shrine is a rare example of harmony between nature and faith.
Since ancient times, the Japanese people have felt the presence of gods in nature and held them in awe. Visiting Yasaka Shrine allows you to experience this Japanese spirituality.
Experiencing Local History and Culture
Visiting Yasaka Shrine is also an opportunity to experience the history and culture of Fujisato Town. It is a place where diverse elements intersect, including the historical event of shrine consolidation during the Meiji era, the faith of the local people, and the natural culture of the Shirakami Mountains.
Summary
Yasaka Shrine, located at 84 Hiyamizudai, Yasaka, Fujisato-machi, Yamamoto-gun, Akita Prefecture, is a historical shrine established in 1910 through the consolidation of three shrines. Blessed with a rich natural environment at the foot of the Shirakami Mountains, a World Natural Heritage site, it has functioned as a center of faith for the local people.
As one of the 1,055 Yasaka Shrines located throughout Japan, it enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto as its main deity and is believed to offer blessings for protection against misfortune, eradication of disease, and abundant harvests.
Its charm lies in its simple atmosphere, unspoiled by tourism, allowing for quiet worship. Combining it with a visit to the Shirakami Mountains makes it a valuable place to experience both nature and faith.
When visiting Fujisato Town, be sure to visit Yasaka Shrine and experience the region’s history, culture, and abundant nature.
