Tsubaki Okami Yashiro

Tsubaki Okami Yashiro, located in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture, is the head shrine of the roughly 2,000 shrines nationwide dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami. The enshrined deity, Sarutahiko Okami, is a god of guidance and of opening new paths, leading matters in a good direction. It is one of the most powerful spots, said to grant the strength to move forward when you take on a new challenge or stand at a crossroads in life.

Highlights

- Blessings for Opening New Paths: Many visit to worship before taking a new step in life, such as changing jobs, starting a business, marrying, or sitting exams. - Kanae Falls: A small waterfall in the grounds, a photo spot reputed to make wishes come true if you photograph it and set it as your phone wallpaper. - Tsubakigishi Shrine (Auxiliary Shrine): A matchmaking shrine dedicated to the wife deity of Sarutahiko Okami, popular with those wishing for good matches and marital harmony.

Enjoying the Seasons

Surrounded by the rich nature at the foot of the Suzuka Mountains, fresh greenery shines in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. The New Year period bustles greatly with worshippers, and long lines form to pray for opening new paths. For quiet worship, a weekday morning is recommended.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: 1871 Yamamoto-cho, Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture - Access: About a 45 to 60-minute bus ride from Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station or JR Yokkaichi Station, getting off at the Tsubaki Okami Yashiro bus stop. By car, about 10 minutes from the Suzuka Interchange on the Higashi-Meihan Expressway. - Hours: Grounds open freely (shrine office staffed during the day) - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

This is a shrine to visit especially for those wishing to start something new. Do not forget to photograph Kanae Falls. Praying for a good match at the auxiliary Tsubakigishi Shrine as well makes for a more fulfilling visit. Coming by car is convenient.