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Kanegasakigu Shrine: A Sanctuary of Love and History

Discover love and history at Kanegasakigu Shrine in Tsuruga, where cherry blossoms bloom and wishes for romance come to life.

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Kanegasakigu Shrine, nestled in Tsuruga, Fukui Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine renowned as a 'Shrine of Love' and a place for overcoming challenges. Founded in 1890 on the historic Kanegasaki Castle site, it commemorates a significant 14th-century battle and offers stunning views of Tsuruga Bay.

A brief summary to Kanegasakigu Shrine Office

Local tips

  • Visit during the Flower-Exchanging Festival in April to experience the shrine's romantic atmosphere and participate in the flower exchange tradition.
  • Explore the ruins of Kanegasaki Fort, located on the mountain above the shrine, for panoramic views of Tsuruga Bay.
  • Purchase a love charm or votive shaped like a tied bag as a unique souvenir and a symbol of overcoming challenges.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From JR Tsuruga Station, take the Tsuruga Excursion Line Bus (Tourism Route) or the Kaigan-sen line Community Bus. The Tsuruga Excursion Line Bus takes approximately 8 minutes to the Kanegasakigu Bus Stop. The Kaigan-sen line Community Bus takes about 6 minutes to the Kanegasakigu-guchi Bus Stop, followed by a 5-minute walk. Bus fares are typically around ¥200-300.

  • Walking

    From Tsuruga Port, it's approximately a 30-40 minute walk to Kanegasakigu Shrine. Head east along the main road, following signs for the shrine. The route is mostly flat and offers views of the city and surrounding landscape.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from JR Tsuruga Station to Kanegasakigu Shrine takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is ¥800-¥1200. Taxis are readily available at the station.

  • Car

    Kanegasakigu Shrine is approximately 10 minutes from the Tsuruga IC on the Hokuriku Expressway. Free parking is available at the shrine, with about 30 car spaces and 5 bus spaces. During the Flower-Exchanging Festival, temporary parking for about 200 cars is available.

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Kanegasakigu Shrine, located in Tsuruga, Fukui, is a site steeped in history and romance. Originally the site of Kanegasaki Castle, the shrine was established in 1890 and is dedicated to Prince Takanaga and Prince Tsunenaga, imperial princes who perished in a 1337 battle. The shrine is one of the Fifteen Shrines of the Kenmu Restoration, built to honor the events of the Nanboku-chō period and promote loyalty to the Imperial family. Kanegasakigu Shrine is best known as a 'Shrine of Love'. This reputation stems from a tradition dating back to the Meiji era (1868–1912) when visitors would exchange cherry blossom branches as a symbol of affection. This custom evolved into the annual Flower-Exchanging Festival, held in April when the shrine's hundreds of cherry trees are in full bloom. The festival continues to attract couples and those seeking love, solidifying the shrine's romantic association. Beyond its romantic appeal, Kanegasakigu Shrine is also considered a place for 'difficult breakthroughs', with visitors praying for success in overcoming challenges. The shrine offers charms and votives shaped like tied bags, referencing a historical event where Oda Nobunaga was warned of an ambush via a message hidden in a bag of azuki beans. The grounds offer panoramic views of Tsuruga Bay and the surrounding area.

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