Receive divine protection from mystical mountain ogres enshrined at Furumine Jinga.

Receive divine protection from mystical mountain ogres enshrined at Furumine Jinga.

Standing tall in Tochigi's western mountainous region is Furumine Shrine, a sacred and stoic place with a far-reaching history and an air of mystery. The 1,300-year-old site is dedicated to Yamato Takeru, a legendary figure in Japanese folklore also known as Prince Osu of the Yamato Dynasty and son of Emperor Keiko, the 12th Emperor of Japan. The shrine was established by Shodo Shonin, a monk responsible for Nikko’s early development.

Wander around the shrine grounds and into the shaden, or main building, and you'll find a large collection of around 200 masks resembling goblins called tengu. According to Japanese folk tales, these fearsome, long-nosed creatures are legendary figures that boast magical powers to ward off disasters and protect people from bad luck. Because tengu are supposedly enshrined in Furumine Shrine, many visit to pray for good luck, safe travels, bountiful harvests, protection from fire, and good health.

While its ancient trees are amazing year-round, Furumine Shrine, like many other corners of Tochigi Prefecture, is especially stunning in the autumn months when the fall colors, or koyo, paints the landscape in warm shades of red, orange and gold. Within the shrine grounds, you'll also find Kohoen, a lush garden complete with a stream that connects to the Oashi River as well as a tea room where guests are invited to soak up the serenity with a hearty cup of matcha and some traditional Japanese sweets.

Furumine Shrine

Furumine Shrine

There is perhaps nothing quite as relaxing a stroll through the grounds of a Japanese shrine, and the scenery found at Furumine offers visitors a glimpse of Tochigi’s seasonal beauty. A couple of hours from Tokyo by train, followed by a bus from JR Kanuma Station, the trip is worth it to experience the unique history of Furumine for yourself.

3027 Kusagyu, Kanuma City, Tochigi 322-0101

View Direction

08:00 – 17:00

Tel: +81 289-74-2111

Email: info@furumine-jinjya.jp

 

https://travel.tochigiji.or.jp/en/things-to-do/105/

Safety Precautions for the Prevention of COVID-19

View more

View more “History” Category View more Tochigi