Overview
Hinazuru Shrine is located in Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture. It enshrines Princess Hinazuru, the consort of Prince Morinaga. The head of Prince Morinaga is enshrined at the nearby Ishifune Shrine, and this place is deeply tied to that poignant tale. The shrine's sacred object is a wooden statue of Tenjin, guardian deity of Princess Hinazuru. Set in a quiet mountain valley, it carries a story from history into the present day.
Highlights
- ●A shrine enshrining Princess Hinazuru, consort of Prince Morinaga
- ●A wooden Tenjin statue said to have been made by Kukai as its sacred object
- ●Deep ties to Ishifune Shrine, where Prince Morinaga's head is enshrined
- ●A quiet place of worship set in a mountain valley
History
Hinazuru Shrine enshrines Princess Hinazuru, consort of Prince Morinaga (also known as Oto-no-miya). The head of Prince Morinaga is enshrined at Ishifune Shrine, while Hinazuru Shrine is known for honoring his consort. Its sacred object is a wooden statue of Tenjin, regarded as the guardian deity of both Oto-no-miya and Princess Hinazuru, standing about four sun (roughly 12 cm) tall. The statue is said to bear an inscription stating it was made by Kukai in the 9th year of Konin (818). In April 2012, an information board for the shrine was installed along a nearby prefectural road.
Access
The shrine is located in Tsuru City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Since April 2012 an information board has stood along a nearby prefectural road, which makes a helpful landmark to guide your way. Given its valley setting, reaching it by car is convenient. Please check official information for detailed directions and visiting hours.
Best season
As a shrine nestled in a mountain valley, it can be enjoyed alongside the changing seasons, from the fresh greenery of spring and summer to the coloring leaves of autumn. For those who wish to reflect on history amid quiet, a visit during less crowded periods is recommended. Please check the weather and road conditions in advance.
Map
35.5627, 139.0044 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head to the shrine using the roadside information board as a landmark
- 2Pay your respects at the hall enshrining Princess Hinazuru
- 3Reflect on the historical tale of Prince Morinaga and Princess Hinazuru
- 4Take in the quiet natural scenery of the mountain valley
Did you know?
💡 The wooden Tenjin statue that serves as the sacred object is said, by tradition, to have been made by Kukai in the 9th year of Konin (818); a great span of history is contained in this small image of about four sun in height. It is a shrine rich in narrative, preserving the sorrowful tale of Princess Hinazuru, consort of Prince Morinaga.
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