Aiwa Shrine, located in the town of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of love and fertility, Aiwa-no-kami. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a vermilion gate and a five-story pagoda. According to local legend, the shrine was founded in 1603 by a samurai who had fallen in love with a local woman.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- Aiwa-no-kami
- Coordinates
- 35.7238488, 140.223313
Visitor tip
To avoid getting lost, visit the shrine early in the morning or late in the evening when it's less crowded. Bring a prayer for your loved ones and tie them to the 'tsutsugaki' pillar.
Cultural notes
Aiwa Shrine is known for its unique 'tsutsugaki' pillar, where devotees write their prayers on paper lanterns and hang them from the pillars. This tradition dates back to the Edo period and is believed to bring good luck and protection for those who tie their prayers to the pillar.
Historical note
Founded in 1603 by a samurai.