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Kanegasakigu Shrine: A Shrine of Love and History

Discover Kanegasakigu Shrine in Tsuruga: A historic Shinto site celebrated for its cherry blossoms and romantic Flower-Exchanging Festival.

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Kanegasakigu Shrine, nestled in Tsuruga, Fukui, is a site steeped in history and romance. Originally established in 702 AD, it's known today as a 'shrine of love,' where visitors pray for romantic fulfillment, particularly during the famed Flower-Exchanging Festival in April. The shrine also commemorates a significant battle and offers scenic views, especially when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

A brief summary to Kanegasakigu

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the Flower-Exchanging Festival in April to experience the shrine's romantic traditions and beautiful cherry blossoms.
  • Purchase a love charm or ema votive as a unique souvenir and a prayer for romantic success.
  • Explore the nearby Kanegasaki Fort ruins for panoramic views of Tsuruga Bay and a glimpse into the area's history.
  • Check the shrine's hours for purchasing charms and other items, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Tsuruga Station, take the Tsuruga Excursion Line Bus (Tourism Route) to the Kanegasakigu Bus Stop. The bus ride takes approximately 8 minutes. Alternatively, take the Kaigan-sen line Community Bus from JR Tsuruga Station to Kanegasakigu-guchi Bus Stop (approx. 6 min.), then walk approx. 5 min. Bus fares are typically inexpensive, around ¥200-300.

  • Walking

    While it's a longer walk, it is possible to walk from Tsuruga Station to Kanegasakigu Shrine. The walk is approximately 2.5km and will take around 30-40 minutes. Head east from the station and follow the main road, Route 27, until you reach the shrine. Be aware that there are limited sidewalks on some portions of the route.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available outside Tsuruga Station. A taxi ride to Kanegasakigu Shrine will take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare will likely be between ¥800-¥1200.

  • Parking

    If driving, there are approximately 20 parking spaces available at the shrine. Temporary parking (approx. 200 cars) is available during the Flower-Exchanging Festival. Parking fees in nearby lots, such as Shirogane Parking, typically offer the first hour free, then charge ¥100 for each additional 60 minutes, with a maximum charge of ¥700 for over 7 hours up to 24 hours. Tsuruya Parking offers 2 hours free with a purchase of ¥3,000 up to ¥9,999 (EXCL.TAX).

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Discover more about Kanegasakigu

Kanegasakigu Shrine, located at the base of the ruins of Kanegasaki Fort in Tsuruga, Fukui, offers a blend of historical significance and romantic charm. Founded in 702 AD during the Nara period, the shrine is dedicated to Kanayamahiko-no-mikoto, a deity believed to protect against disasters. Over the centuries, the shrine has been reconstructed, with the current main hall reflecting Edo-period architecture. The shrine gained prominence during the Edo period and is known today as a 'shrine of love'. This reputation stems from the Flower-Exchanging Festival, which began around 1910. During the Meiji era (1868–1912), visitors would exchange cherry blossom branches as a symbol of their feelings, a tradition that continues to this day. The Flower-Exchanging Festival is held from the 1st to the 15th of April, drawing crowds of young people seeking their perfect match. Kanegasakigu also holds historical importance due to its proximity to the ruins of Kanegasaki Fort. In 1336, the fort was the site of a fierce battle between Nitta Yoshisada and the Ashikaga army. The shrine is dedicated to the imperial princes Tsunenaga and Takanaga, who died in this battle. Additionally, the shrine is linked to the story of Oda Nobunaga, whose sister O-ichi is said to have sent him a subtle warning via a bag of azuki beans, leading to his strategic withdrawal and eventual victory. Visitors to Kanegasakigu can explore the shrine's distinctive structures, including torii gates and vermilion-painted buildings. The shrine is also known for its hundreds of cherry blossom trees, making it a popular spot during the spring. The shrine offers o-mamori charms and ema wooden votives shaped like bags tied shut at both ends, referencing the story of Oda Nobunaga.

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