Iwasekoroku Shrine, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Enmei and the god of agriculture, Kanezawa-hoshino. The shrine's name, Iwasekoroku, literally translates to 'The Shrine of the Sacred Land'. Historical records date back to 1631 when it was first established by Date Masamune, a powerful daimyo from Mito. The shrine's architecture is typical of the Kamakura period, with a distinctive five-story pagoda and a large torii gate. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several walking paths and a serene pond.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Enmei
- Kami enshrined
- Enmei, Kanezawa-hoshino
- Coordinates
- 35.7824296, 139.9108169
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's architecture, it is recommended to visit during sunrise or sunset when the five-story pagoda casts a golden glow.
Cultural notes
The Enmei-choji shrine festival, held annually on May 2nd, celebrates the arrival of spring and the mythological significance of the Enmei deity. During this festival, participants dress in traditional clothing and perform rituals to ensure a bountiful harvest. The shrine is also said to be the site where Kanezawa-hoshino was worshipped as a guardian deity of agriculture.
Historical note
Iwasekoroku Shrine was rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1817.