Wakamiya Hachimansha

Wakamiya Hachimansha, located close to the lively Sakae district in Naka Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture, is an ancient shrine that has long drawn deep faith as the guardian shrine of all Nagoya. Said to have been founded in the Asuka period, it was relocated to its present site during the construction of Nagoya Castle. Right in the center of the city, it is a power spot with solemn halls and calm grounds.

Highlights

- Dignity as the City Guardian: As the shrine protecting all of Nagoya, its imposing halls welcome worshippers. It is known for blessings of protection from misfortune, good fortune, and matchmaking. - Renri Inari Shrine: One of the subordinate shrines, believed to bless good matches and popular among female worshippers. - Calm in the City Center: With a stillness hard to imagine right beside the office buildings, it is a perfect space to drop by and compose your mind.

Enjoying the Seasons

The biggest rite is the Wakamiya Festival, held in May. Counted among Nagoya's three great festivals, it is a splendid event in which gorgeous floats parade through the city center. In spring, the greenery of the grounds is beautiful, and in autumn the atmosphere turns calm. The New Year period bustles with first-visit worshippers.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 3-35-30 Sakae, Naka Ward, Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture - Access: About a 5-minute walk from Yabacho Station on the Subway Meijo or Tsurumai Line - Hours: Grounds open freely (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

Located in the heart of the Sakae area, it is easy to drop by between shopping and sightseeing. Those wishing for a good match should be sure to pray at the Renri Inari Shrine in the grounds as well. Visiting around the Wakamiya Festival in May lets you feel Nagoya's traditional culture firsthand.