Kawakami Shrine (Kosaka-machi, Kazuno-gun, Akita Prefecture) | Complete Guide to History, Deities, and Access
Kawakami Shrine, located in Kosaka-machi, Kazuno-gun, Akita Prefecture, is a historic shrine that has been cherished as a center of local faith since its founding during the Eiroku era (1558-1570). This article provides a comprehensive overview of Kawakami Shrine’s detailed history, enshrined deities, access methods, and its connection to the local community.
Basic Information about Kawakami Shrine
Shrine Name and Location
Shrine Name: Kawakami Shrine
Location: Kawakami, Kosaka-machi, Kazuno-gun, Akita Prefecture
Kawakami Shrine is located in Kosaka-machi, in the northeastern part of Akita Prefecture, on the border with Aomori Prefecture. Kosaka-machi has the western shore of Lake Towada and is a naturally rich area where forests and wilderness occupy approximately 80% of the total area. This area was part of the Morioka Domain during the Edo period, through which the Tsugaru Highway passed. From the early 19th century onward, it flourished with metal mines such as the Kosaka Mine.
Deities Enshrined
Due to its history as a merger of several shrines, Kawakami Shrine enshrines many deities. The main deities enshrined here include guardian deities of the region and gods bestowing blessings such as abundant harvests, business prosperity, and family safety, attracting the faith of local residents.
Due to the shrine mergers of 1910 (Meiji 43), the following shrines were integrated into Kawakami Shrine:
- Murakami Hachiman Shrine (unranked)
- Yutani Inari Shrine (unranked)
- Dozan Shrine
- Omorihei Inari Shrine (unranked)
- Magotaro Inari Shrine (unranked)
- Tochikawahara Murasha Orai Shrine (village shrine)
- Wakagidachi Inari Shrine (unranked)
With the enshrinement of the deities of these shrines, Kawakami Shrine became the center of faith for the entire region.
History and Origins of Kawakami Shrine
Origin of Founding
The founding of Kawakami Shrine dates back to the Eiroku era (1558-1570). It is said to have been originally founded as “Suriusu Shrine” by Akimoto Samanosuke.
The Eiroku era (1558-1570) was the end of the Sengoku period (Warring States period), and this region was also affected by war. It is believed that the shrine was founded with the purpose of praying for peace and prosperity in the region and a bountiful harvest, against this historical backdrop.
Reconstruction during the Genbun era
In the first year of the Genbun era (1736), the shrine was rebuilt within the village. During this period in the mid-Edo period, the Kosaka region was under the rule of the Morioka Domain, and the local community was stable. The reconstruction improved the shrine buildings and grounds, creating a system to accommodate more worshippers.
Shrine Mergers during the Meiji Era
1910 (Meiji 43) marked the most important turning point in the history of Kawakami Shrine. In this year, the seven aforementioned shrines merged, and the official name “Kawakami Shrine” was established.
Due to the Meiji era’s policy of shrine consolidation, small shrines were merged throughout the country, and Kawakami Shrine was also affected by this policy. However, this was not simply a merger or consolidation; it became an opportunity to unify the faith of the entire region and form a stronger religious community.
Each of the merged shrines was revered as the tutelary deity of a different region, and the consolidation of these faiths into Kawakami Shrine strengthened its character as the guardian deity of Kosaka Town as a whole.
Designation as a Shrine Receiving Offerings of Sacred Food and Cloth
In May 1921 (Taisho 10), Kawakami Shrine was designated as a “Shrine Receiving Offerings of Sacred Food and Cloth” (Shinsen Heihakuryo Kyoshin Jinja).
This meant that the shrine was recognized as a shrine that receives offerings of sacred food (offerings to the gods) and cloth (cloths offered to the gods) from the national government. This designation was official proof of Kawakami Shrine’s important role in the region and demonstrated the shrine’s status and the depth of faith.
History and Culture of Kosaka Town
Development as a Mining Town
Kosaka Town, where Kawakami Shrine is located, flourished greatly from the early 19th century onward due to mining centered around the Kosaka Mine. Gold, silver, copper, and zinc were mined, and at its peak, it was even called “the largest mine in the Orient.”
As the mine developed, many people gathered in Kosaka Town, and the town developed rapidly. Kawakami Shrine also played an important role as a place for praying for the safety and prosperity of the people working in the mine and their families.
Modernization Heritage and Culture
After the closure of the Kosaka Mine, the town utilized its ore refining technology and is now one of Japan’s leading recycling bases. Furthermore, many modernization heritage sites from the mining era remain, and historical buildings such as the Kosaka Mine Office (a nationally important cultural property) are utilized as tourist resources.
Kawakami Shrine has watched over the historical changes of Kosaka Town and is one of the places that symbolizes the history and culture of the region.
Akita Prefectural Shrine Association and Kawakami Shrine
Kawakami Shrine is a shrine belonging to the Akita Prefectural Shrine Association. The Akita Prefectural Shrine Association is an organization that oversees shrines throughout Akita Prefecture, and is responsible for supporting shrine operations, training Shinto priests, and promoting Shinto culture.
The Akita Prefectural Shrine Association’s website publishes information on shrines throughout the prefecture, including Kawakami Shrine, making it a valuable source of information for worshippers and researchers. Detailed information about the history and enshrined deities of Kawakami Shrine can also be found through the Akita Prefectural Shrine Association.
How to Access Kawakami Shrine
Location
〒017-0292 (Postal Code of Kosaka Town)
Kawakami, Kosaka, Kazuno District, Akita Prefecture
Access by Public Transportation
By JR Train:
- Get off at Towada-Minami Station on the JR Hanawa Line
- Take a taxi or bus from the station towards Kosaka Town
- Travel time: Approximately 20-30 minutes
By Bus:
- Take the Shuhoku Bus and get off at a bus stop in Kosaka Town
- Walk or take a taxi from the nearest bus stop
Access by Car
Using the Tohoku Expressway:
- Approximately 10-15 minutes from the Kosaka Interchange
- Via National Route 282
From Akita City:
- Via National Route 7, National Route 103, and National Route 282
- Estimated travel time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
From Aomori Prefecture:
- Take National Route 103
- Approximately 40 minutes via Lake Towada
Parking
There is parking space for visitors within the shrine grounds or nearby, but it is recommended to check the details in advance.
Manners and Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
Basic Shrine Etiquette
When visiting Kawakami Shrine, please follow the basic shrine etiquette below:
- 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: Purify your hands and mouth at the water basin. Purify your left hand, then your right hand, then your mouth, and finally the handle of the ladle.
- Walk along the edge of the path: The center of the path is considered the path of the gods, so walk along the edge.
- Worship at the Main Hall: Worship is performed using the two bows, two claps, and one bow ritual.
- Bow deeply twice
- Clap your hands twice
- Bow deeply once
- Bow Upon Exit: When leaving through the torii gate, turn back and bow towards the shrine.
Attire for Worship
Unless it is a special festival or formal worship service, everyday attire is acceptable, but clean and subdued clothing is preferred.
Annual Events at Kawakami Shrine
Kawakami Shrine holds various Shinto rituals and festivals throughout the year. These include traditional local events and festivals commemorating seasonal milestones, making it a central part of the religious life of the local residents.
Main Annual Events
- New Year’s Day Festival: Celebrating the start of the new year and praying for peace throughout the year
- Spring Grand Festival: Praying for a bountiful harvest with the arrival of spring
- Summer Purification Ceremony: A Shinto ritual to cleanse away the impurities accumulated over the past six months
- Autumn Grand Festival: Expressing gratitude for the harvest and praying for the prosperity of the region
- Niiname-sai Festival: Offering new grain to the gods and giving thanks for the harvest
- New Year’s Eve Purification Ceremony: Cleansing away the impurities of the year and preparing for the new year
For specific dates and details, please contact the Akita Prefectural Shrine Association or the Kosaka Town Tourist Information Center.
Kosaka Town Tourist Spots
When visiting Kawakami Shrine, we recommend also visiting other tourist spots in Kosaka Town.
Kosaka Mine Office
This wooden Western-style building, constructed in 1905 (Meiji 38), is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. A beautiful building incorporating Renaissance style, it is possible to tour the interior.
Korakukan
Constructed in 1910 (Meiji 43), it is the oldest active theater and a nationally designated Important Cultural Property. Plays are still performed regularly, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of the Meiji era.
Lake Towada
Kosaka Town has the western shore of Lake Towada, where you can enjoy beautiful natural scenery. The autumn foliage season offers particularly spectacular views.
Acacia Grove
A park located within Kosaka Town, where beautiful acacia flowers bloom in spring. It’s an ideal spot for strolls and picnics.
Shrine Culture of the Kazuno Region
The Kazuno region (Kazuno City and Kosaka Town), where Kawakami Shrine is located, is home to many shrines, fostering a unique shrine culture.
Characteristics of the Kazuno Region
The Kazuno region is a naturally rich area encompassing the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, formed by volcanic activity. This region has long been a popular hot spring destination, boasting three major hot spring areas, including the Hachimantai Onsenkyo (Hachimantai Hot Spring Village).
Within this natural environment, shrines have functioned as spiritual anchors for local residents and as places of reverence and gratitude towards nature.
Shrines and Local Communities
Shrines in the Kazuno region, including Kawakami Shrine, have served not only as places of worship but also as centers of local communities. Festivals and religious ceremonies provide opportunities for residents to gather, deepen their bonds, and play an important role in the transmission of local traditional culture.
Jingu Taima and the Rituals of the Shinto Altar
Kawakami Shrine also distributes Jingu Taima (Ise Grand Shrine amulets). Jingu Taima are sacred talismans from Ise Grand Shrine and are enshrined in Shinto altars in homes and businesses throughout Japan.
How to Install a Shinto Altar
When installing a Shinto altar in your home, please note the following:
- Location: A clean place, in a location where family members can easily perform daily prayers.
- Direction: South-facing or east-facing is preferable.
- Height: Higher than eye level.
- Order of Worship: Place the Ise Grand Shrine amulet in the center, the local guardian deity’s amulet on the right, and the amulet of a revered shrine on the left.
Daily Worship
Ideally, rice, salt, and water should be offered at the altar daily, and prayers should be performed morning and evening. It is customary to pray especially carefully on the 1st and 15th of each month.
Kawakami Shrine and the Future of the Region
Kawakami Shrine has supported the faith of the region for over 460 years since its founding during the Eiroku era. It has witnessed the changing times, from the era when the town prospered as a mining town to the modern era of the recycling industry.
Preserving Tradition
Amidst depopulation and an aging population, passing on local traditional culture and beliefs to future generations is a major challenge. The festivals and rituals of Kawakami Shrine symbolize the region’s history and identity, and their preservation is crucial for maintaining the local community.
Potential as a Tourism Resource
Kosaka Town is a member of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Japan” association and is actively promoting tourism by leveraging its rich natural environment and historical heritage. Kawakami Shrine, as an important resource for conveying the region’s history and culture, has the potential to be positioned as part of a tourist route.
Summary
Located in Kosaka Town, Kazuno District, Akita Prefecture, Kawakami Shrine has a long history as the center of local faith since its founding during the Eiroku era. Following the merger of shrines in 1910 (Meiji 43), it assumed the role of guardian deity for the entire region, and its importance was recognized when it was designated a shrine receiving offerings of sacred food and cloth in 1921 (Taisho 10).
The history of Kosaka Town is intertwined with that of the mine, and Kawakami Shrine has watched over its transformations, remaining a spiritual anchor for the local residents. Visiting the shrine along with surrounding tourist attractions such as Lake Towada and the modern industrial heritage of the Kosaka Mine will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich nature and historical culture.
When you visit, why not quietly offer your prayers while reflecting on the shrine’s history and the stories of the region? Kawakami Shrine will continue to walk alongside the people of Kosaka Town into the new era.
