If you feel the urge to "meet someone wonderful" or "make this love come true," why not take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Tsuruga? In the Tsuruga/Wakasa area of Fukui Prefecture, there are many power spots that attract love.
The model course for a "match-making trip" introduced here does not require a car! You can tour the area by public transportation* and renting a bicycle. Let's receive power from the sacred spots and attract a good match!
The transportation schedule is as of October 2024. They may be subject to change in the future.
The model course for a "match-making trip" introduced here does not require a car! You can tour the area by public transportation* and renting a bicycle. Let's receive power from the sacred spots and attract a good match!
The transportation schedule is as of October 2024. They may be subject to change in the future.
Model Course for "A Journey of Marriage
01. 9:00: Start the tour from Kehi Jingu Shrine
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02. 9:58: Go to Kanegasakigu Shrine, where love blooms.
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03. 12:35: Go by bicycle from Higashi Obama Station!
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04. 12:45: Recharge your batteries with a local fish lunch!
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05. 13:53: Wish for a good marriage at Wakasa Hime Shrine
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06. 14:32: Touch the power of a couple of Japanese cedars at Wakasa Hikohiko-jinja Shrine
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07. 15:02: Goal!
01. 9:00: Start the tour from Kehi Jingu Shrine
｜
02. 9:58: Go to Kanegasakigu Shrine, where love blooms.
｜
03. 12:35: Go by bicycle from Higashi Obama Station!
｜
04. 12:45: Recharge your batteries with a local fish lunch!
｜
05. 13:53: Wish for a good marriage at Wakasa Hime Shrine
｜
06. 14:32: Touch the power of a couple of Japanese cedars at Wakasa Hikohiko-jinja Shrine
｜
07. 15:02: Goal!
[9:00] Begin your journey at Kehi Jingu Shrine .
The trip begins at Khi Jingu, the first shrine in Echizen Province! Kehi Jingu Shrine is located about a 15-minute walk from Tsuruga Station and is nicknamed "Keisan" by local residents.
The "Ichinomiya" of Echizen Province indicates the highest shrine rank in the area. Kehi Jingu Shrine was founded in 702, but the history of the main deity, Kibi Daijin, is said to be even older, dating back more than 2,000 years before the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters).
The symbol of Kehi Jingu Shrine is the Otorii (Great Gate). It is one of the "Three Great Wooden Torii Gates of Japan" along with Kasuga-taisha Shrine in Nara and Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima.
The "Ichinomiya" of Echizen Province indicates the highest shrine rank in the area. Kehi Jingu Shrine was founded in 702, but the history of the main deity, Kibi Daijin, is said to be even older, dating back more than 2,000 years before the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters).
The symbol of Kehi Jingu Shrine is the Otorii (Great Gate). It is one of the "Three Great Wooden Torii Gates of Japan" along with Kasuga-taisha Shrine in Nara and Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima.
First, let's visit the main shrine. The main deity, Izasawake-no-mikoto, is a god who watches over the safety and abundance of food, clothing, and shelter, as well as safety at sea. The shrine also enshrines seven other highly dignified deities, including Emperor Chuai, son of Yamatotakeru, and Empress Jingu, a married couple.
After visiting the shrine, ask God's opinion on the "Kibi no Koi-mikuji" next to the offering box. Tie the omikuji you have drawn to the "En-musubi Sakura" on the right side of the main shrine and wish for a good marriage.
At the awarding place near the main shrine, you can receive a "marriage charm" named after the married couple of Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingu. If you carry it around with a wish for the fulfillment of your love, you may have a good encounter. ......?
On the west side of the temple grounds are the "Nine Shrine Temples," a cluster of nine shrines. Of these, the Ame-no-Izanahime Shrine (Ame-no-Izanahime Shrine) has long been a place of blessings for matchmaking. Ask the god for your innermost wish, such as the fulfillment of a new encounter or romance with someone you are interested in!
On the northeastern side of the shrine grounds is the shrine of "Dohkoh-san, "*1 a sacred place said to have existed before the founding of Kehi Jingu Shrine . Behind the torii gate, in the schoolyard of an elementary school, is a large tree called "Dohkoh-san. This is a primitive shrine (Himorogi; yoroshiro*2) for inviting the gods.
1 A place set aside for worshipping gods and Buddha from a distance
*2 Trees, stones, etc. that serve as a medium for gods and spirits when they descend.
It is said that about 2,000 years ago, Izasawake-no-Mikoto, the main deity of the shrine, descended from the mountain Tezatsuyama, which can be seen from here. Since it was difficult to visit the shrine on top of the mountain, he used a large tree on the plain (Dohkosan) as a primitive place to pray.
1 A place set aside for worshipping gods and Buddha from a distance
*2 Trees, stones, etc. that serve as a medium for gods and spirits when they descend.
It is said that about 2,000 years ago, Izasawake-no-Mikoto, the main deity of the shrine, descended from the mountain Tezatsuyama, which can be seen from here. Since it was difficult to visit the shrine on top of the mountain, he used a large tree on the plain (Dohkosan) as a primitive place to pray.
If you visit Kehi Jingu Shrine , don't forget to stop by Chomeisui, located on the main approach to the shrine, which has been continuously flowing for more than 1,300 years since its construction in 702. It is believed that the name "Chomeisui" comes from the fact that one of the deities of the shrine, Takeuchi no Sukune-no-Mikoto, lived a long life.
Kehi Jingu Shrine
| Address | 11-68 Akebono-cho, Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Access | 15 minutes on foot from Tsuruga Station on the JR Hokuriku Line, or 5 minutes by bus from the station.
Take either the "Community Bus" or "Gurutto Tsuruga Shuyu Bus" and get off at the Kehi Jingu Shrine -mae stop.
About 10 minutes by car from the Tsuruga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway.
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| Parking lot | Yes (free of charge) |
| Opening and closing hours | April to September: 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
October - March] 6:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
|
| Telephone number | 0770-22-0794 |
| URL | https://kehijingu.jp/ |
[9:53] Take the "Gurutto Tsuruga Round Trip Bus" from the Kehi Jingu Shrine stop to Kanegasakigu Shrine (5 minutes).
[9:58] Go to "Kanegasakigu Shrine" where love blooms.
After climbing about 100 steps, it was time to enter the precincts of the temple!
Kanegasakigu Shrine, located on a small hillside, is a matchmaking spot also known as a "love shrine. It is also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot with approximately 400 Someiyoshino cherry trees in full bloom in spring.
The deities of the shrine are Prince Takanaga Shinno, son of Emperor Godaigo, and Prince Tsunenaga Shinno. The site, located at the foot of the ruins of Kanegasaki Castle, is also an old battlefield where Nitta Yoshisada fought against the Ashikaga forces to protect his parents.
The deities of the shrine are Prince Takanaga Shinno, son of Emperor Godaigo, and Prince Tsunenaga Shinno. The site, located at the foot of the ruins of Kanegasaki Castle, is also an old battlefield where Nitta Yoshisada fought against the Ashikaga forces to protect his parents.
When you arrive at the temple grounds, you will see an imposing worship hall.
Surrounded by trees, the temple grounds have a somewhat homey atmosphere. The soft light shining through the trees is beautiful, and the power of nature is soothing.
Cherry blossom-colored shrine curtain, a rarity among shrines in Japan
Kanasaki Shrine became known as the "Shrine of Love" because of the Hana-Kae Festival, which is said to have started in the 40s of Meiji era (1907). In this romantic festival, a branch of cherry blossoms is handed to the person you are in love with, saying, "Let's exchange flowers." If the person you are in love with gives the same answer, you exchange the branches and start dating. ......
As a place to express one's feelings and to take the first step between two people, Kanasaki Shrine has come to be known as the "Shrine of Love.
As a place to express one's feelings and to take the first step between two people, Kanasaki Shrine has come to be known as the "Shrine of Love.
The main shrine stands behind the middle gate.
Kanasaki Shrine, also known as the place of the difficult battle of Kanegasaki, took place in 1570, when Oda Nobunaga's sister, Oichi, found herself caught between the Asai and Asakura armies. When Oichi received a sack filled with azuki beans, her favorite food, and tied at both ends, Nobunaga sensed the danger that loomed over him. He then made a retreat, known as "Kanegasaki no retreat," and escaped from his predicament.
Kanasaki Shrine has several amulets for love fulfillment, and you can receive the one that is closest to your wish. There is one with the shrine's character "Karen-chan," a lucky girl (right photo), and another with a charm for overcoming difficulties in love, making it fun just to choose one!
Difficulty Guard" with a single azuki bean, based on an anecdote about Nobunaga.
To the left of the main shrine is the "Hanabari no Koji (path of flower exchange)" that continues for about 200 meters, offering a panoramic view of Tsuruga Bay, the port, the mountains, and the city. In spring, it is a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing.
After walking for about 10 minutes, you will arrive at Tsukimizaki, which is called "Tsukimi-goten" (moon-viewing palace)! Tsukimi-goten" is said to be the place where the warlords of the Warring States period used to view the moon. Located 86 meters above sea level, the beautiful Tsuruga Bay spreads out below you, and a fresh, comfortable breeze blows through the air. The climb up from the main hall may be a bit strenuous, but it is worth the walk.
Kanasaki Shrine is known as a power spot for matchmaking and love fulfillment. It is recommended for those who want to make love come true, as well as for those who love history.
Kanegasakigu Shrine
| Address | 1-4 Kanegasaki-machi, Tsuruga City, Fukui Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Access | Get off at Tsuruga Station on the JR Hokuriku Line.
Take the "Gurutto Tsuruga Shuyu Bus" and get off at the Kanegasaki Shrine stop.
*About 8 minutes by bus from Tsuruga Station, about 5 minutes by bus from Kibi Jingu Shrine.
Approximately 10 minutes by car from the Tsuruga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway
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| Parking lot | Free parking available |
| Opening and closing hours | All day |
| Telephone number | 0770-22-0938 |
| URL | http://kanegasakigu.jp/ |
[10:58] Take the "Gurutto Tsuruga Round Trip Bus" from Kanegasakigu Shrine stop to Tsuruga Station (11:08 arrival)
[11:18] From Tsuruga Station, take the JR Obama Line to Higashi Obama Station (arrive at 12:20).
[12:35] Go by bicycle from Higashi-Ohama Station!
When you arrive at JR Higashi Obama Station, rent a bicycle at the Obama City Cycling Center located inside the station. In addition to regular bicycles, electric bicycles are also available. Enjoy an exhilarating ride through the nature-rich cityscape!
Obama City Cycling Center
| Address | 84-3-4 Tohshiki, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture (in JR Higashi Obama Station) |
|---|---|
| Hours of operation | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. |
| Telephone number | 0770-56-1132 |
| URL | https://www1.city.obama.fukui.jp/shisei/kokyoshisetsu/kaikan-senta/37.html |
[12:45] Power up with a local fish lunch!
Restaurant Houraiya
Before heading to the next matchmaking spot, go for lunch. Restaurant Houraiya, a 10-minute bicycle ride from Higashi Obama Station, offers a popular "Wakasa-zen" meal that includes local fish sashimi and tempura.
Restaurant Houraiya
| Address | 30-22-1 Ueno, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Access | Get off at Higashi Obama Station on the JR Obama Line
About 10 minutes by bicycle, about 27 minutes on foot
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| Parking lot | Yes (free of charge) |
| Closed | Tuesdays |
| Business hours | 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
|
| Phone number | 0770-57-1119 |
[13:45] Bicycle to Wakasa Hime Shrine (about 8 minutes)
[13:53] Wish for a good marriage at "Wakasa Hime Shrine
Wakasa Hime Shrine is the lower shrine of the Wakasa Ichinomiya Shrine. Together with the upper shrine, Wakasa Hiko Shrine, they are a married couple and known as a power spot. Both the upper and lower shrines, the main shrine, the Shinto gate, and the Zuijinmon gate, are designated as cultural assets by Fukui Prefecture.
Wakasa Hime Shrine was founded in 721; it has a history of over 1,300 years and has been close to many people.
Wakasa Hime Shrine was founded in 721; it has a history of over 1,300 years and has been close to many people.
The "Thousand Year Cedar," which rises next to the main shrine and has been worshipped as a symbol of longevity and immortality, is a sight to behold. The tree is 40 meters tall, and its size is obvious when compared to the main shrine.
The deity of Wakasa Hime Shrine is Toyotamahime no Mikoto. Together with Hikohohodemi no Mikoto, the deity of Wakasa Hiko-jinja Shrine, she is believed to be the guardian deity of safety at sea and good fishing.
On October 14, 2024, the spirit was moved to the precincts of Wakasa-hime Shrine to repair the roof of Wakasa-hiko Shrine. It is scheduled to return to Wakasa Hiko Shrine in early October 2025.
In this year, when the couple is enshrined in the same place for the first time in 1,300 years, you will also receive the blessings of Wakasa Hiko-jinja (the upper shrine) when you visit Wakasa Hime Shrine (the lower shrine).(Upper shrine) will also receive the blessings of Wakasa Hiko-jinja Shrine. (Mr. Michitsugu Kaji, chief priest of Wakasa Hiko Shrine)
Nakamiya Shrine in the precincts of Wakasa Hime Shrine
There are three precinct shrines within the precincts of Wakasahime Shrine, of which Nakamiya Shrine is believed to be beneficial for matchmaking and the fulfillment of love. Hie Shrine is the only rare shrine in Japan that enshrines the god of dream fulfillment (Yumehikojin and Yumehimejin). Tamamori-jinja Shrine enshrines Tamamori-jin, the "God of Miracles.
In addition to the "Good Marriage and En-musubi Mamori", you can also receive the "Yume Mamori", which is a prayer for the realization of your dreams and those of your loved ones, in honor of Yumekikojin and Yumekihimejin. The "Dream Mamori" is also a blessing for good marriages and will be a strong ally for those who wish to achieve love and make their dreams come true.
Wakasa Hime Shrine
| Address | 65-41 Tohshiki, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Access | About 10 minutes on foot from Higashi Obama Station on the JR Obama Line
Approximately 5 minutes by car from Obama IC on Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway
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| Parking lot | Yes (free of charge) |
| Opening and closing hours | All day
Reception at the shrine office: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
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| Telephone number | 0770-56-1116 |
| URL | https://wakasahiko-jinja.jp/ |
[14:25] Bicycle to Wakasahiko Shrine (about 7 minutes)
[14:32] Touch the power of a couple of Japanese cedars at "Wakasa Hikohiko-jinja Shrine
Two large cedars used as torii (gateway to the shrine)
The area around Wakasa Hikohiko-jinja, called "Chinju no Mori," is truly a Shinto shrine. Walking along the approach surrounded by tall trees to the main shrine, one naturally feels a sense of being in awe.
Located in front of the gate of the temple precincts, the "Meoto Sugi" (cedar trees for married couples) are known as a power spot for marital bliss and good marriage, since the two trees are connected at the base. The taller tree, 40 meters high, is the "husband's tree" and the shorter one is the "wife's tree. Looking up from below, one can feel the depth of history as well as the preciousness of life that has been spun up to this point.
At the end of the mysterious approach to the shrine, the majestic main shrine building is revealed. Since there is no shrine office at Wakasa Hiko Shrine, visitors are advised to go to the Wakasa Hime Shrine (Shimo-sha) first for gifts such as amulets and charms, and for vermilion seals.
The roof is under restoration work until the end of September 2025, but you can still enter and exit the main shrine from the approach.Visitors can see the damage and the progress of the restoration work, and they can also visit the shrine’s last shrine, Arizumashi Shrine.(Mr. Michitsugu Kaji, chief priest of Wakasa Hiko-jinja Shrine)
Wakamiya Shrine, which enshrines Ugayafuiazumikoto, the son of the Wakasa-hiko and Wakasa-hime deities and a god of safe childbirth, is also located on the shrine grounds. The shrine also enshrines the deity Aritsujin, who is believed to be beneficial for academic success, so many students preparing for entrance exams also visit the shrine.
The two shrines, Wakasahime Shrine and Wakasahiko Shrine, are a pair. If you wish for a good marriage to the god who has been watching over the couple since ancient times, he is likely to gently encourage you to do so.
The two shrines, Wakasahime Shrine and Wakasahiko Shrine, are a pair. If you wish for a good marriage to the god who has been watching over the couple since ancient times, he is likely to gently encourage you to do so.
Wakasa Hikohiko-jinja Shrine
| Address | 28-7 Ryumae, Obama City, Fukui Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Access | Get off at Higashi Obama Station on the JR Obama Line
Approximately 25 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by car
About 10 minutes from Obama IC on Maizuru-Wakasa Expressway
|
| Parking lot | Yes (free of charge) |
| Opening and closing hours | All day |
| Telephone number | No phone number |
| URL | https://wakasahiko-jinja.jp/ |
[14:52] Bicycle to Higashi Obama Station (10 minutes)
[15:02] Goal!
The goal is to return to Higashi Obama Station by bicycle! After that, why not take the 15:24 train bound for Higashi Maizuru and extend your visit to Obama City, Takahama Town, or Ooi Town? Stay at an inn with an ocean view and relax after a pleasant day's work. If you wish to return to Tsuruga, there is a train leaving at 15:34 for Tsuruga.
Obama City, Ooi Town, Takahama Town] 6 hotels where you can be healed by the tranquil sea and the joy of food - "AoYo Yoshi Hi TSURUGA WAKASA" Shuukai Campaign Official Website
![Obama City, Ooi Town, Takahama Town] 6 hotels where you can be healed by the tranquil sea and the joy of food - "AoYo Yoshi Hi TSURUGA WAKASA" Shuukai Campaign Official Website](https://cdn.clipkit.co/tenants/1336/item_links/images/000/016/729/thumb/ef821e04-6df5-4b4e-b06d-9e9bb247a86b.jpg?1741232211)
The blue ocean with the sun shining, the orange-tinged ocean at dusk, the quiet and gentle sound of the waves.... Just looking at the ocean without doing anything else is enough to calm your mind, isn't it? You want to forget your hectic daily life and be healed! Here we introduce six healing inns in Obama City, Ooi Town, and Takahama Town facing the beautiful Wakasa Bay, perfect for such a trip. Be sure to enjoy the food that only a seaside inn can offer.
Go to Tsuruga/Wakasa by sightseeing train "Hanaakari"!
JR West Japan
The sightseeing train “Hanaakari” will be running again this year.
The body color is based on the color of Binroujizome, a type of dyeing originating in the Nara period and considered to be the highest quality, and the design stands out along the route and at stations.
One of the three cars has 10 spacious private rooms for two people, creating a relaxed atmosphere inside the train.
The train runs only on weekends and departs from and arrives at stations in Tsuruga and Wakasa, making it a great option for sightseeing.
*Please note that reservations may not be available due to full capacity.
The body color is based on the color of Binroujizome, a type of dyeing originating in the Nara period and considered to be the highest quality, and the design stands out along the route and at stations.
One of the three cars has 10 spacious private rooms for two people, creating a relaxed atmosphere inside the train.
The train runs only on weekends and departs from and arrives at stations in Tsuruga and Wakasa, making it a great option for sightseeing.
*Please note that reservations may not be available due to full capacity.
Summer (July to September)
Operating section: Tsuruga to Osaka
Click here for details ↓
hanakari:JR Odekake Net
（You will be redirected to JR Odekake Net.）
Autumn (October to December)
Operating section: Tsuruga to Kinosaki Onsen
Click here for details ↓
Sightseeing Train “Hanaakari”
（You will be redirected to the JR West website.）
Operating section: Tsuruga to Osaka
Click here for details ↓
hanakari:JR Odekake Net
（You will be redirected to JR Odekake Net.）
Autumn (October to December)
Operating section: Tsuruga to Kinosaki Onsen
Click here for details ↓
Sightseeing Train “Hanaakari”
（You will be redirected to the JR West website.）