Kinpu Jinja

Standing in Nagaoka City, Kinpu Jinja is one of Niigata oldest shrines, said to have been founded in 709. It enshrines Kanayamahiko no Mikoto, the deity of metals and mines, and has been affectionately called Zao-sama by local people.

It is believed to offer wide-ranging blessings, including fortune in money, matchmaking, victory in challenges, and the growth of industry, and a steady stream of people visit at turning points in life. It is known above all for its spirited yabusame ritual of horseback archery, and the calm precinct, distinctive of an ancient shrine, soothes the hearts of those who come.

Highlights

• A great zelkova that serves as the sacred tree, said to be over 800 years old.
• A blue stone horse statue, rare nationwide, radiating a singular presence.
• The spirited yabusame horseback archery ritual dedicated at the annual festival, where the sight of archers shooting targets from horseback is stunning.
• Solemn shrine buildings befitting an old shrine, and a precinct that conveys the passage of long years.

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the trees of the precinct bud, and in summer the green shade is cool. Autumn colors the trees, the great zelkova among them, and winter shows snow-clad buildings standing crisp and dignified. At the time of the yabusame ritual it shows a locally rooted liveliness, and you can pray quietly all year.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: 3-1-5 Nishi-Zao, Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture
• Access: About 10 minutes by Echigo Kotsu bus (toward Takaramachi and other routes) from JR Nagaoka Station to the Zao stop, then about 3 minutes on foot. From JR Kita-Nagaoka Station it is about 15 minutes on foot to the west.
• Parking is available, and you can stroll the precinct slowly on foot.

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season: early summer greenery and autumn foliage. A visit timed to the yabusame ritual is also recommended for its many highlights.
• Avoiding crowds: it is lively at the annual festival but usually quiet for worship, and the clear morning air is recommended.
• Time needed: about 30 minutes to an hour for worship and a stroll of the precinct.
• Nearby spots: central Nagaoka and Yukyuzan Park. It also pairs with a trip around the Nagaoka Fireworks in August.
• Budget guide: worship is free. It is easily reached by bus from Nagaoka Station and fits well into a rail trip.

A Quick Tip

The sacred great zelkova is large enough that you must look up to see it. Take your time exploring and you will not miss highlights such as the blue stone horse.

📚 Sources

This article is based on public information from Kinpu Jinja, guidance from Nagaoka City and the Nagaoka Tourism and Convention Association, and on-site information boards. Festival dates such as the yabusame ritual and bus services may change, so please confirm with Kinpu Jinja or the Nagaoka Tourism and Convention Association before setting out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: Allow about 30 minutes to an hour for worship and a stroll.
• Getting there: About 10 minutes by bus from Nagaoka Station to the Zao stop, then a short walk.
• When to go: The yabusame ritual at the annual festival is a highlight worth timing a visit to.
• How to tour: Take time to see the great zelkova and the rare blue stone horse.
• Before you go: Confirm festival dates and bus services in advance, as they may change.