Tobu-shinja is a Shinto shrine located in Akita Prefecture, dedicated to the god of the road and travelers. The shrine is famous for its unique torii gate made from wooden pillars and ropes, rather than traditional stone or wood. Visitors can walk through the rope gate and receive good luck and protection on their journey.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Tobishi no Kami
- Coordinates
- 40.1988276, 140.2144432
Visitor tip
When visiting Tobu-shinja, it's customary to tie your shoelaces with a string before passing through the rope gate, and then cut the string on the other side as a symbol of good luck and safe return.
Cultural notes
As a shrine dedicated to the god of the road, Tobu-shinja is often visited by travelers and people looking for protection or blessings before embarking on new journeys. The shrine also holds an annual festival in September, called the Tobu-jin Matsuri, where locals dress up in traditional clothing and perform rituals to ensure safe passage.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 1883 during the Meiji period as a new shrine dedicated to the deity of the road.