Shinkai Sansha Shrine

Standing in Saku City, Shinkai Sansha Shrine is a storied old shrine long said to be the head shrine of the Saku region. It enshrines three deities, foremost among them Okihagi no Mikoto, who is also called Niisaku no Kami, and is thus spoken of as the origin of the name Saku. Traditions remain of repairs to the shrine buildings by Minamoto no Yoritomo and of prayers for victory by Takeda Shingen, and it has been revered as a martial deity. At the rear of the grounds rises a Muromachi-period three-story pagoda, which with the eastern main hall is designated a National Important Cultural Property.

Highlights

- The three-story pagoda, built in 1515 and designated, with the eastern main hall, a National Important Cultural Property. - The shrine of Okihagi no Mikoto, head shrine of the Saku region and said to be the origin of the place name. - Its history as a martial deity, preserving traditions tied to Minamoto no Yoritomo and Takeda Shingen. - The quiet, solemn atmosphere of the grove spreading across the vast grounds.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the fresh-green season the trees in the grounds are lush, and the pairing of the pagoda with the greenery is beautiful. In autumn the trees turn color, and the combination of historic shrine buildings and foliage is well worth seeing. During the Shichi-Go-San and New Year periods it bustles with local worshippers, but on ordinary days you can explore in calm. Pairing a visit with a walk through Sakus history is also recommended.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Taguchi, Saku City, Nagano - Access: About 2 km east of Usuda Station on the JR Koumi Line, about 5 minutes by car; parking available - Hours: Grounds open at all times - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

The grounds are large and the points of interest are scattered, so walking unhurriedly to the pagoda and each main hall is rewarding. Visit in comfortable shoes and savor the sense of history in the quiet air of the grove.