Hachiman Shrine (Kanae Nagokuma, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture) Complete Guide | History, Deities, and Access Information
Hachiman Shrine, located in Kanae Nagokuma, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, is a historical shrine that, along with Suwa Shrine, is known as Nagokuma Shrine and attracts the faith of the local community. This article provides detailed information you should know before visiting, including the shrine’s history, enshrined deities, highlights of the grounds, and access methods.
Basic Information about Hachiman Shrine
Location and Address
Official Location: Kanae Nagokuma, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture
Postal Code: 〒395-0804
Kanae Nagokuma is located east of the center of Iida City, on the east bank of the Tenryu River, in what is known as the “Ryuto region.” The place name “Kanae” has been used since ancient times to refer to this region, and Nagokuma is one of its districts.
Pronunciation and English Name
- Japanese Pronunciation: Nagano-ken Iida-shi Kanaenagokuma
- English Name: Kanaenagokuma, Iida-shi, Nagano-ken
- Romanization: Nagano-ken Iida-shi Kanaenagokuma
This English name is useful for visitors from overseas and when sending mail.
About the Shrine’s Official Name
This shrine is a combination of “Hachiman Shrine” and “Suwa Shrine,” and is affectionately known locally as “Nagokuma Shrine.” In other words, it has the distinctive configuration of two shrines enshrined within a single precinct.
History and Origins of Hachiman Shrine
Background of Founding
While there are various theories regarding the founding of Nagokuma Shrine (Hachiman Shrine/Suwa Shrine), it is generally believed to have been established as a prayer site for the Ogasawara clan, who wielded considerable power in the Shimo-Ina region for over 400 years, from the Heian period to the Azuchi-Momoyama period.
The Ogasawara clan was a powerful samurai family in Shinano Province, wielding significant influence, particularly in the Shimo-Ina region. Prayers to gods and Buddhas were crucial political and spiritual pillars for governing this region, and Nagokuma Shrine is thought to have played a central role in this.
Position in the Region
Even today, Nagokuma Shrine is revered as a “guardian shrine” by people in the former Iida city area, the Ryuto region, and the Ajima area. It plays a central role in local festivals and annual events, functioning as a spiritual pillar for the local community.
Fusion of Hachiman and Suwa Faiths
The unique feature of this shrine is the coexistence of two distinct faiths, Hachiman and Suwa, within its grounds.
Hachiman faith is a faith that spread nationwide as the guardian deity of samurai families. It enshrines Emperor Ojin as its principal deity and is associated with prayers for military success and national peace. It was a natural progression for samurai families like the Ogasawara clan to worship Hachiman.
Suwa faith originated in Nagano Prefecture, with Suwa Grand Shrine as its head shrine, and enshrines Takeminakata-no-kami. It is associated with agriculture and hunting, and has attracted particularly fervent devotion in Shinano Province.
The coexistence of these two faiths has allowed the shrine to develop as a place where prayers can be offered for both the protection of samurai families and the peace and abundance of harvests in the region.
Deities and Divine Virtues
Deities of Hachiman Shrine
Hachiman Shrine, whose principal deity is Emperor Ōjin, is believed to possess the following divine virtues:
- Long-lasting military fortune and success in competitions
- Protection from misfortune and good fortune
- Industrial development
- Family prosperity
- Traffic safety
Deities of Suwa Shrine
Suwa Shrine enshrines Takeminakata-no-kami and Yasakatome-no-kami, and possesses the following divine virtues:
- Abundant harvests and protection of agriculture
- Protection of hunting
- Good fortune and prosperity
- Matchmaking
- Water blessings as the guardian deity of Lake Suwa
The charm of these shrines lies in the fact that you can pray for a variety of wishes by visiting both shrines.
Highlights of the Shrine Grounds
The Sacred Grove
Nagokuma Shrine is known as a “sacred grove” surrounded by abundant nature. Ancient trees flourish within the grounds, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. The sacred atmosphere is especially heightened during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves.
Arrangement of the Shrine Buildings
The unique arrangement of the shrine buildings, with Hachiman Shrine and Suwa Shrine located side-by-side, is a major characteristic of this shrine. Visitors can observe the historical value and architectural style of each building.
Stone Monuments and Memorials
Throughout the grounds are stone monuments and memorials that tell the history of the region, demonstrating how much the local people have cherished this shrine.
Access and Map Information
Location Details
Address: Nagokuma, Kanae, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture
Postal Code: 〒395-0804
Local Government Code: 20205 (Iida City)
Access by Train
The nearest station is JR Iida Line “Kanae Station”.
- Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from Kanae Station
- Approximately 5 minutes by car from Kanae Station
It is also relatively close to Iida Station, about 10 minutes by car from Iida Station.
Access by Bus
You can also use local bus routes operating within Iida City:
- Ujinori Line (bound for Iida Station)
- Ajima Loop Line (clockwise/counterclockwise)
- Komaba Line
Use one of these routes and get off at the bus stop closest to the Nagokuma area.
Access by Car
Chuo Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Iida IC
- Approximately 10 minutes from Zakoji Smart IC
San’en-Nanshin Expressway
- Approximately 15 minutes from Tenryukyo IC
We recommend checking parking availability before your visit.
View on Map
Kanae Nagokuma is located in the eastern part of Iida City, on the east bank of the Tenryu River. It is easily accessible from National Route 153 (Sanshu Kaido), and is situated in a quiet environment surrounded by residential areas and farmland.
Nearby Shrines and Temples
Many other shrines and temples are scattered throughout the Kanae district of Iida City and the surrounding area.
Major Shrines in the Neighborhood
Suwa Shrine (Another Suwa Shrine)
- Approximately 13 minutes on foot (979m)
- One of several Suwa Shrines in the area
Atago Inari Shrine
- Approximately 19 minutes on foot (1.4km)
- Worshipped as the god of fire prevention and business prosperity
Shinmei Shrine
- Approximately 19 minutes on foot (1.5km)
- A shrine dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami
Shimonomiya Suwa Shrine
- Approximately 21 minutes on foot (1.7km)
Hatogamine Hachimangu Shrine
- Approximately 21 minutes on foot (1.7km)
- One of the representative Hachimangu shrines of Iida City
Hachioji Shrine
- Location: 1822-1 Kanae Nagokuma, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture
- Corporate Number: 6100005009806
- Located within the same Kanae-Nagokuma district,
Visiting these shrines is one way to enjoy sightseeing in Iida.
Manners and Etiquette for Worship
Basic Worship Etiquette
- Bow before passing through the torii gate
- Purify your body and mind at the water basin
- Hold the ladle in your right hand and purify your left hand.
- Switch the ladle to your left hand and purify your right hand.
- Switch the ladle back to your right hand, receive water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth.
- Finally, hold the ladle upright to purify the handle.
- Two bows, two claps, and one bow in front of the main hall
- Bow deeply twice.
- Clap twice.
- Finally, bow deeply once.
Visiting both Hachiman Shrine and Suwa Shrine
Since both shrines are located next to each other, it is recommended to visit both shrines if time permits. Expressing gratitude and prayers to each deity will make your visit more fulfilling.
Annual Events and Festivals
Local Festivals
Nagokuma Shrine holds traditional local festivals. Specific dates may vary from year to year, so it is recommended to check with local information sources or the Iida City Tourism Association before visiting.
New Year’s Visit
At the start of the new year, local people visit the shrine for their first shrine visit of the year, praying for peace and prosperity throughout the year. You can welcome the new year in a warm atmosphere unique to a community-oriented shrine.
About the Kanae District of Iida City
Regional Characteristics
The Kanae district is located in the eastern part of Iida City, spreading along the east bank of the Tenryu River. The unusual place name “Kanae” is said to originate either from the ancient three-legged vessel “kaname” or from the merger of three villages.
History of Kanae
This area has long been a thriving agricultural region, with fertile land blessed by the Tenryu River. In recent years, this area has developed as a residential area and is one of the fastest-growing districts in Iida City.
Main Facilities
- Apita Iida Store: Large commercial facility
- Kaname Station: JR Iida Line station
- Various Restaurants: Karubi Taisho, Cannery Row, Kura Sushi, etc.
This is a comfortable place to live, with convenient facilities for daily life, while still retaining shrines and natural surroundings.
Combined with Iida City Sightseeing
Main Tourist Spots in Iida City
Why not visit other tourist spots in Iida City in conjunction with your visit to Hachiman Shrine?
Tenryukyo Gorge
- A beautiful gorge created by the Tenryu River
- Boat trips are popular
Iida Castle Ruins (Nagahime Castle Ruins)
- Castle ruins that tell the history of Iida City
- Currently developed as a park
Moto-Zenkoji Temple
- The temple where the principal image of Zenkoji Temple was first enshrined
- It is said that “a pilgrimage is incomplete unless you visit both temples”
Apple Tree-lined Street
- An apple tree-lined street in the center of Iida City
- A place of relaxation for citizens
Puppet Show Festival
- An international puppet show festival held every August
- Iida City is known as the “City of Puppet Shows”
Iida’s Food Culture
Goheimochi
- A local dish from Southern Shinshu
- Characterized by its sweet and spicy sauce
Yakiniku Culture
- Iida City is known as the “City of Yakiniku” with many yakiniku restaurants
- Jingisukan is also popular
Ichida Persimmon
- Dried persimmons, a specialty product of Iida City
- Characterized by their refined sweetness
Points to note when visiting
Attire
While no special attire is required for visiting the shrine, clean and understated clothing is preferred. Since the shrine grounds are surrounded by nature, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Photography
Photography is generally permitted on the shrine grounds, but please be considerate of other visitors. Photography inside the shrine buildings may be prohibited.
Visiting Hours
Visiting the shrine during the daytime is generally recommended. Please refrain from visiting at night or in the early morning, and be considerate of the lives of local residents.
Summary: The Charm of Hachiman Shrine (Nagokuma Shrine)
Hachiman Shrine (Nagokuma Shrine, attached to Suwa Shrine), located in Nagokuma, Iida City, Nagano Prefecture, is a venerable shrine with a history connected to the Ogasawara clan, and has attracted the faith of the local community for over 400 years.
The Charms of This Shrine:
- Historical Value: Its history as a place of prayer for the Ogasawara clan
- Fusion of Two Faiths: The coexistence of Hachiman and Suwa faiths
- Abundant Nature: A beautiful environment as a guardian forest
- Connection to the Community: It still functions as a spiritual pillar of the community
- Easy Access: Close to the center of Iida City, making it easy to combine with sightseeing
When you visit Iida City, be sure to visit this historic shrine, calm your mind in its tranquil grounds, and experience the history and culture of the region. By paying homage to both Hachiman and Suwa deities, you can receive the divine blessings of both military fortune and abundant harvests.
Nagokuma Shrine, which has been loved by the local people for generations, is a hidden historical spot in Iida City and well worth visiting.
