Nunakuma Jinja

In the port town of Tomonoura in Fukuyama City, Hiroshima, Nunakuma Jinja is a venerable old shrine whose name appears in the register of the Engishiki, a code of law from the Heian period. It is said to have begun when, in the reign of Emperor Chuai, Empress Jingu enshrined Owatatsumi in prayer for safety on the sea routes. Its chief deity is Owatatsumi, with Susanoo enshrined as an accompanying deity, and it is known for blessings of safety at sea, prosperity in fishing, recovery from illness, and safe childbirth. Long affectionately called the Gion shrine of Tomo, it has quietly watched over this salt scented port town and stands as a leading power spot of Tomonoura.

Highlights

• The Noh stage designated an important cultural property of the nation. Originally within Fushimi Castle and said to have been favored by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, it is a demountable stage with the characteristics of the Momoyama period, a rare structure that can be taken apart and relocated.
• The blessing of a guardian of the sea, before which people praying for safety at sea and prosperity in fishing have pressed their palms together since long ago.
• A presence woven into the townscape of Tomonoura. Strolling the port town before or after your visit lets you fully savor its historic atmosphere.

Enjoying the Seasons

The summer Gion festival is a leading traditional event of Tomonoura, filling the whole town with energy. Spring and autumn bring mild weather, making a visit combined with a Tomonoura stroll especially pleasant. Throughout the year you can relax while feeling the sea breeze. On clear days the bright light and sea views unique to a port town feel especially pleasant.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: 1225 Ushiroji, Tomo-cho, Fukuyama City, Hiroshima
• Access: About 30 minutes by Tomotetsu bus from in front of JR Fukuyama Station, getting off at the Tomonoura bus stop and walking about 10 minutes. Coming by public transport combined with sightseeing in Tomonoura is convenient.
• Hours: Grounds open freely (check the amulet office hours)
• Admission: Free

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season and time: Mild spring and autumn are ideal for strolling. During the summer Gion festival the whole town bustles, and you can savor a lively atmosphere.
• Time needed: About 30 minutes for worship alone. Combined with a walk through Tomonoura, allow about half a day to enjoy it at leisure.
• Avoiding crowds: Weekends in the sightseeing season see the whole Tomonoura area bustling. Weekdays or early morning hours are relatively calm.
• Real nearby spots: Tomonoura gathers sights such as the Taichoro hall of Fukuzenji, the Iroha Maru Museum, the Ota Residence, and the stone lantern, letting you enjoy a historical stroll as well.
• Budget sense: Worship is free. Even including admission to nearby museums and meals, it is affordable. Allowing for the bus fare brings peace of mind.

A Quick Tip

It is best visited together with sightseeing in Tomonoura. While walking the historic streets, offer a prayer for a safe journey to the guardian deity of the sea. Since Tomonoura has many narrow lanes, exploring on foot lets you enjoy it at a relaxed pace.

📚 Sources

The information in this article is organized from the history handed down at Nunakuma Shrine, on-site signboards, and tourism details for the city of Fukuyama and Tomonoura. Information on cultural properties such as the noh stage and rites can be confirmed through the shrine and local public information. Fees, hours, and access may change, so please always confirm with official sources before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About 30 to 60 minutes for a visit and a look around the grounds, or half a day combined with a Tomonoura stroll.
• What to bring: Small change is handy for amulets and a goshuin, and comfortable shoes help with the stone steps.
• Getting around: It is in the Tomonoura area, and a bus from Fukuyama Station is convenient.
• Suggested route: After praying at Nunakuma Shrine, extend to the old townscape of Tomonoura and the highlights around the harbor.
• A note on worship: The grounds include cultural properties, so view them quietly and follow the guidance and etiquette.