Located in the town of Takasaki, Toharuna Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami of agriculture and fertility. The shrine's name, Toharuna, means 'house of the willow tree' in Japanese, referencing the tree that grows along the nearby Toh River. Visitors can explore the shrine's beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tohara Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Tohara Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.3751514, 138.916972
Visitor tip
To make a wish at the shrine, visitors should first rinse their hands in the river and then tie a red string around the willow tree branch with their prayer.
Cultural notes
As a shrine dedicated to the kami of agriculture, Toharuna Shrine is often visited by farmers and locals seeking good harvests and fertility. The shrine's annual spring festival, called 'Hanami,' celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms and the arrival of spring.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Edo period (1603-1867), with its origins dating back to the Heian period (794-1185).