A Shinto shrine in Kanagawa Prefecture dedicated to Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, a legendary prince and hero of Japanese mythology. The shrine's name 'Azuma' refers to the eastern regions of Japan that the prince pacified during his campaigns.
This shrine is dedicated to Konohana-no-Sakuya-hime, the kami of Mount Fuji and cherry blossoms, who is revered as a protector of safe childbirth and family harmony. Worshippers come here seeking blessings for pregnancy, successful delivery, and the health of mothers and children, making it particularly popular among expectant families in the region. The shrine also serves as a place for prayers related to beauty, fertility, and protection from fire, reflecting the diverse attributes of this powerful feminine deity in Shinto tradition.
- Denomination
- Imperial
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 35.3844117, 139.2686728
Visitor tip
Look for historical markers or displays that may explain the connection to Yamato Takeru and the eastern campaigns of ancient Japan.
Cultural notes
The worship of Yamato Takeru represents the veneration of imperial lineage and military valor in Japanese culture. The Azuma name itself has become synonymous with the Kanto region and eastern Japan, reflecting the lasting cultural impact of these legendary expeditions.
Historical note
The shrine is associated with the legendary exploits of Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, who according to the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki conducted military campaigns in the eastern provinces during the reign of Emperor Keiko. The name Azuma originates from the prince's lament for his wife Oto Tachibana-hime, who sacrificed herself to calm the seas during his journey.