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1,470+ years of history at this revered shrine and foremost sacred site of Totomi Province. Soothing serenity awaits in the embrace of centuries-old trees.
With a history dating back over 1,470 years, Okuni Shrine is one of the most revered and historic shrines in the Enshu region. Enshrining Onamuchi-no-Mikoto—also known as Daikoku-sama—the deity of good fortune, protection, and matchmaking, the shrine has long been venerated by royalty and samurai alike as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Totomi Province. Tokugawa Ieyasu, who rebuilt the main shrine, along with generations of Tokugawa shoguns, maintained close ties through generous donations and renovations.
In modern times, the shrine has continued to receive visits from members of the imperial family, including Prince and Princess Akishino in 2003, Princess Atsuko Ikeda in 2006, and Princess Hisako Takamado in 2017. Notably, in October 2024, Okuni Shrine Sriracha, the first overseas branch shrine, will be established in Thailand, serving as a cultural bridge between Japan and Southeast Asia.
The sacred grounds span an impressive 300,000 tsubo (approx. 99 hectares), enveloped by towering cedar and cypress trees. Each season brings natural beauty: in spring, a variety of cherry blossoms—such as shidare-zakura, taki-zakura, green-flowered gyoiko, and the deep pink kanhi-zakura gifted as a symbol of Japan–Taiwan friendship—burst into bloom. Early summer sees 80,000 irises bloom at the neighboring Ichinomiya Iris Garden. Visitors are also treated to vibrant green foliage in summer and brilliant autumn leaves in fall.
A beloved spiritual symbol is the Hyo-no-ki, a sacred tree over 800 years old believed to bless visitors with good fortune in love. Worshippers visit year-round to pay their respects.
Along the shrine path, you’ll find Okuni Kotomachi Yokocho, a charming shopping and dining area featuring local tea merchants offering all-you-can-fill tea bag deals, as well as shops serving regional sweets like rice dumplings and warabi mochi. With rest areas available, it’s a perfect spot to unwind after your visit.
Don't miss the exclusive Kozuchi sweets—available in limited daily quantities—from the esteemed confectionery Kasho Asaoka, a local favorite in Morimachi.
The main shrine, where the enshrined deity is worshipped
In spring, the grounds come alive with cherry blossoms, including weeping and waterfall varieties
The taiko bridge is a beloved spot for viewing vibrant autumn leaves
The Junidangagaku (Twelve-Tiered Court Dance), a nationally designated Important Cultural Property
A vast sacred forest surrounded by towering trees
Goshuin (shrine stamps) are also popular as a cherished memento of your visit
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have pamphlets in other languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
Sorry, we don’t.
Q
Do you offer goshuin (temple/shrine stamps)?
Yes. Standard goshuin are available for 500yen, and special edition goshuin are available for 800yen.
Q
Is parking available?
Yes. (Accommodates 900 vehicles)
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Not available.
Q
Can I borrow a wheelchair?
Yes. One indoor-use wheelchair is available at the shrine office, and an outdoor-use wheelchair can be borrowed from Kotomachi Yokocho.
