Hakuja Shrine

Located in Ueda City, Matsuoja Shrine honors the spirit of a white serpent said to have been the master of Ueda Castle. It takes its origin from the enshrining of the spirit of a white serpent said to have lived in the moat since the Sanada clan built the castle, given the name Matsuoja, and locals affectionately call it Hakuja-san or Hakuja Shrine. Known for a wide range of blessings such as good fortune, success, prosperous business, and recovery from illness, it is a small but deeply revered power spot known to those in the know.

Highlights

- A storied shrine that preserves the white-serpent legend tied to Ueda Castle. - A wide range of blessings, including good fortune, success, prosperous business, and recovery from illness. - Quiet grounds with a calm atmosphere, tucked into the hillside. - Charms and goshuin seal stamps themed on the white serpent, nice mementos of a visit.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the fresh-green season when the surroundings are lovely, and in autumn when the trees turn color, worship in the quiet grounds feels all the more pleasant. Visitor numbers rise at milestones connected to the Year of the Snake or the white serpent, but on ordinary days you can pray in calm, which is part of its appeal. Pairing a visit with a walk through Uedas history, such as Ueda Castle Park, is also recommended.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Ueda City, Nagano (on the hillside north of Ueda Castle) - Access: About 10 minutes by car from Ueda Station on the JR and Shinano Railway lines; parking beside the grounds - Hours: Grounds open at all times - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

The road leading to the shrine narrows in places to barely the width of one car, so drive carefully. Watch for oncoming cars and proceed slowly. Since it is close to central Ueda, it is convenient to drop by while touring the old castle town.