Samukawa-jinja Shrine has been worshiped since ancient times in Japan as a guardian deity of “Happo-yoke.” “Happo” refers to all directions, indicating its power as protection from impending disasters that assail us from all sides. According to the historical record going back to about the year 1600, Samukawa-jinja Shrine was worshiped by famous Military Commanders during the Japanese feudal period, including MINAMOTO no Yoritomo (the first shogun), TAKEDA Shingen, and members of the TOKUGAWA clan. Nowadays, we accommodate a large number of worshipers from all over Japan, coming from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south in pursuit of blessings.

Before offering a prayer service, we will consult with you about your wish at the reception. Such consultation with the shinto priest before the prayer may be unfamiliar to the first-time visitors. However, we are willing to listen to your problem or wish whether about yourself, your family, your business, your travels, or whatever it may be. The consultation will help us make the prayer most suitable for your wish.

The divine virtues of Happo-yoke protect against misfortune from all directions and serves to lighten the burden of those suffering from insecurity. This idea is expressed in the proverb “An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.” Also, it will serve as a “life’s compass” for the people who lead a challenging life, offering grace and virtue to them so that they advance without losing their way. As a result, impending misfortune may be thereby weakened and happiness maximized. We are always ready to help people with problems or who are at turning points in their lives, so please visit Samukawa-jinja Shrine.