located in the city of Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the deity Uke Mochi, who was revered by the ancient Japanese as a protector of children and women in childbirth. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, with a main hall, shrines, and garden. A small museum inside the shrine complex showcases artifacts related to the history and culture of the area.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Uke Mochi
- Kami enshrined
- Uke Mochi
- Coordinates
- 35.7267577, 139.3628399
Visitor tip
For visitors, a recommended stop is the shrine's garden, where guests can ring the large cast iron bell that is said to bring good luck and prosperity.
Cultural notes
In Saitama Prefecture, shrines are often associated with the worship of the 'tsukiyomi-no-kami', the Shinto god of harvests and agriculture. While Uke Mochi's role may have been as a protective deity, many locals believe that the shrine's location in a rural area is connected to the ancient agricultural practices of the region.
Historical note
Founded during the Edo period (1603-1867), this shrine has maintained its historic significance through the centuries.