Maebashi Toshogu Shrine

Founded in 1624, Maebashi Toshogu Shrine originally stood in Katsuyama, Echizen (present-day Fukui Prefecture), with Tokugawa Ieyasu—the shogun who established the Edo Shogunate—as its principal deity. In 1871, the shrine was relocated to its current site in Maebashi City, Gunma Prefecture. It also enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, and Konohanasakuya-hime, the goddess of safe childbirth, offering a variety of blessings to worshippers.

One unique tradition at this shrine involves the “Harai River” sacred stream. Those receiving purification prayers for misfortune or vehicle safety write their names or vehicle details on paper cut into human or car shapes, then float them on the river to symbolically cleanse sins and impurities. The shrine also features Japan’s first-ever purification station exclusively for cars, drawing many visitors seeking traffic safety blessings.

Another highlight that captivates many visitors is the replica of the Otegine spear—one of Japan’s Three Great Spears. Thanks to a popular video game that sparked a national sword boom, the exhibit attracts not only fans of the game but also history enthusiasts.

After visiting the shrine, take a relaxing break at the on-site café, where you can unwind in a peaceful and serene setting.