Toga Shrine

Toga Shrine, located in Toyokawa City, Aichi Prefecture, is an ancient shrine revered as the first shrine of Mikawa Province and deeply venerated by the people of eastern Mikawa. Its enshrined deity is Onamuchi-no-Mikoto (also known as Okuninushi). Known for a wide range of blessings, including matchmaking, wealth, protection from misfortune, and family safety, it consists of two shrines: the Satomiya on the plains and the Okumiya atop Mount Hongu.

Highlights

- Satomiya (Village Shrine): An easily accessible shrine in the city of Toyokawa, with a solemn main hall and lush green grounds. - Okumiya (Inner Shrine): Located at the 789-meter summit of Mount Hongu. Long revered as a sacred mountain where the gods dwell, climbing up to worship lets you feel a refreshing spiritual energy. - Sazare-ishi and Sacred Trees: Auspicious sights are scattered throughout the grounds, well worth exploring at a leisurely pace.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring, the fresh greenery of Mount Hongu is beautiful and perfect for hiking. In summer, many worshippers climb to the inner shrine seeking cooler air. In autumn, the entire mountain turns to colorful foliage, and the views from the climbing path are exceptional. In winter, you can worship quietly at the Satomiya in crisp, clear air. The New Year period bustles with first-visit worshippers.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 2 Nishigaito, Ichinomiya-cho, Toyokawa City, Aichi Prefecture (Satomiya) - Access: About a 5-minute walk from Mikawa-Ichinomiya Station on the JR Iida Line. For the inner shrine, use the Hongusan Skyline by car. - Hours: Grounds open freely (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

If time allows, visiting both the Satomiya and the Okumiya is highly recommended. Since Mount Hongu, home to the inner shrine, can be reached by car, even those not fond of hiking can savor the pure air at the summit. It is also popular as a good-fortune route through eastern Mikawa when combined with Toyokawa Inari.