Kehi Jingu Shrine: Guardian of Hokuriku

Kehi Jingu Shrine, a revered spiritual site in Tsuruga, has been an integral part of the Hokuriku region for over 1300 years. Founded in 702 AD, the shrine is dedicated to seven Shinto deities and is known as the chief guardian shrine of the Hokuriku region. Locals affectionately call it 'Kei-san'. The shrine's most striking feature is its 11-meter-tall vermilion-painted wooden torii gate, designated as an Important Cultural Property. It stands as one of Japan's three greatest wooden torii gates, alongside those at Nara's Kasuga-taisha Shrine and Hiroshima's Itsukushima Shrine. Constructed from juniper wood that washed ashore from Sado Island, the gate symbolizes the entrance to a sacred space. Within the shrine grounds, visitors can discover the Chomeisui Spring, also known as the 'water of long life'. This sacred spring is believed to have originated in 702 AD during the shrine's construction and is said to bring long life and protection against illness. The shrine also features a statue and stone monument commemorating a visit by the renowned poet Matsuo Basho in 1689. Kehi Jingu Shrine hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the O-taue Rice-planting Festival in June, the Sosansai Festival in July, and the Tsuruga Festival in September. These festivals offer visitors a glimpse into local traditions and celebrations. The shrine is open daily, and admission is free, making it accessible for all to experience its spiritual and cultural significance.