Hozumi Shrine on Ryusozan

In Aoi Ward of Shizuoka City in Shizuoka Prefecture, Hozumi Shrine rests on the slopes of Ryusozan, known as a mountain of faith. Ryusozan is a twin peaked mountain made up of Yakushidake (about 1,051 meters) and Monjudake (about 1,041 meters), climbed since ancient times as a mountain of devotion. A legend remains that the mountain was named because a dragon dropped its claw there. Hozumi Shrine enshrines Onamuchi and Sukunabikona. Sitting along a popular hiking course that is easy to climb and close to central Shizuoka, it is a mountain power spot where you can combine hiking with a shrine visit.

Highlights

• The main hall resting on the slopes of Ryusozan, brimming with the atmosphere of mountain worship and wrapped in the pure air of the forest.
• Two great cedars rising in the grounds, said to be over 500 years old and cherished as the Meoto Sugi, the husband and wife cedars.
• The Gun Festival, derived from a tradition connected to the Takeda army, known as a rite that tells the history of the area.
• A base for the trails leading to the summits of Yakushidake and Monjudake, so you can aim for the peak right after your visit.

Practical Travel Notes

• Best time and seasons: Fresh greenery in spring is ideal for hiking with vivid young leaves. In summer the elevation keeps it cooler than the city and the shaded approach is pleasant. Autumn turns the whole mountain to fall colors, and in winter the clear air heightens the sacred mood.
• Time needed: The course from the Hirayama trailhead via Hozumi Shrine over Yakushidake and Monjudake and down to Sorezawa runs about 9.5 kilometers, roughly half a day with breaks. A road can be used to reach the shrine itself.
• Avoiding crowds: Weekends draw hikers. For a quiet visit or a day hike, an early start is recommended and safer.
• Nearby real spots: Access from central Shizuoka is good, and after your visit you can enjoy Shizuoka oden or seafood from Suruga Bay. Approach by the Shizutetsu Just Line Ryusozan route is also possible.
• Budget sense: Visiting is free. The real costs are bus fare or parking to the trailhead and your gear.
• Safety notes: In the mountains, watch for sudden weather changes and sunset. If you walk the trails, bring sturdy shoes and gear and plan within your limits.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Hirayama, Aoi Ward, Shizuoka City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• Train and bus: Get off at the Hirayama stop on the Shizutetsu Just Line Ryusozan route, then head from the trailhead to Hozumi Shrine. Service is limited, so check the timetable.
• By car: Drive from central Shizuoka to the trailhead. There is also a road that climbs near Hozumi Shrine by car, with some narrow sections to watch for.
• Parking: Parking spaces are available near the trailhead and shrine.
• Fees and hours: Visiting is free. As it is in the mountains, visit during daylight hours. Check the Shizuoka City tourism information for details.

A Quick Tip

Beyond the shrine visit, if you have the stamina, extend your trip to the summits of Yakushidake and Monjudake. The view over Suruga Bay and Shimizu Port and the sense of accomplishment will make the blessings feel all the more real. Before the husband and wife cedars, it is also fitting to wish for good relationships and family harmony. (Tabitabi Japan Editorial Team)

📚 Sources

This article is based on Shizuoka City and local tourism information and on guidance about the history of Hozumi Shrine on Ryusozan and its trails. It touches on the married-couple cedars, the Gun Festival, and the trail leading to Yakushidake and Monjudake. Bus service is limited, so times and details of worship and festivals may change; please check Shizuoka City's tourism information before you set out.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: A short visit to the shrine, or about half a day to tour Yakushidake and Monjudake
• Access: Get off at Hirayama on the Shizutetsu Just Line Ryusozan route; part of the way can be driven
• What to bring: Sturdy shoes and gear for the mountains, watching for sudden weather changes
• How to get around: A trailhead where you can head for the summit right after worship
• Avoiding crowds: Weekends draw many hikers; an early start is safer for day hikes
• Also enjoy: Shizuoka oden and Suruga Bay seafood after worship