Overview
Imaizumi Yasaka Shrine stands in the heart of Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. Its formal name is Yasaka Shrine, and the local place name 'Imaizumi' is added to distinguish it. Enshrining Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a deity long trusted for warding off misfortune and disease, it offers a calm, rooted atmosphere right in the middle of the city.
Highlights
- ●Main hall enshrining Susanoo, deity of protection from misfortune
- ●Diverse blessings from Kunitokotachi, Amaterasu and Michizane
- ●A quiet guardian grove within central Utsunomiya
- ●Sugawara no Michizane enshrined for success in study
History
The shrine formerly held the rank of village shrine (sonsha) and has long been revered as a local guardian deity. Alongside its main deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, it enshrines Kunitokotachi-no-Mikoto, the sun goddess Amaterasu-Omikami, and Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, embracing prayers for protection, good fortune, and academic success. For details of its founding and history, please check official sources.
Access
The shrine sits in central Utsunomiya, near 36.56N and 139.90E. It is reachable on foot or by local bus from JR Utsunomiya Station or Tobu Utsunomiya Station, making it an easy stop during a walk through the city. Please confirm parking and transport details via official information.
Best season
As a shrine dedicated to Susanoo, the summer season of Gion and Tenno festivals is especially lively here. Fresh greenery and autumn foliage also make the grounds beautiful, while the New Year period draws visitors for first-of-the-year prayers and misfortune-warding rites.
Map
36.5656, 139.8994 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Start from JR or Tobu Utsunomiya Station and stroll the city
- 2Visit Imaizumi Yasaka Shrine to pray for protection and study
- 3Take time to honor each enshrined deity within the grounds
- 4Enjoy Utsunomiya's famous gyoza dumplings nearby
Did you know?
💡 Shrines dedicated to Susanoo-no-Mikoto are known across Japan as 'Yasaka' or 'Gion' shrines, famous for summer rites that ward off epidemics. Imaizumi Yasaka Shrine takes its place name to set it apart from other Yasaka-lineage shrines in Utsunomiya.
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