Futagami Imizu Shrine, the Former Site of Imizu Shrine at the Foot of Mount Futagami

Nestled at the southern foot of Mount Futagami in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, Futagami Imizu Shrine is the original site of Imizu Shrine, known as a first shrine of Etchu Province. A venerable shrine conveying the high rank of a great shrine of the Engishiki, it has long drawn reverence in this place. When Imizu Shrine was relocated in 1875 to the former main keep of Takaoka Castle, the strong feelings of the parishioners of Futagami village kept the shrine on the old site, and that is the present Futagami Imizu Shrine. It is said that people clung to the sacred palanquin in sorrow at the parting, and the weight of history and the faith of the community live on here still.

Highlights

• The deep history as the former site of Imizu Shrine, a first shrine of Etchu Province
• Quiet, solemn grounds embraced by the greenery of Mount Futagami
• Precious rites that carry on the tsukiyama observance and lion dance that ceased at the main shrine
• The nature of the Mount Futagami area and scenery tied to the Manyoshu spreading nearby

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring the trees of Mount Futagami bud and soft light reaches the approach. Summer keeps the grounds cool under deep green, perfect for a quiet visit. Autumn colors the mountain, and the foliage lends charm to the ancient shrine. Winter wraps the grounds in crisp air with snow-clad Mount Futagami behind. With few tourists, it offers a peaceful experience throughout the year.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Futagami, Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture
• Within walking distance of a station on the Manyosen line (about 8 minutes on foot from the former Kosei Hospital-mae stop)
• About 15 minutes on foot from JR Takaoka Station, or reachable by car
• Reachable by car from the Takaoka-kita Interchange on the Noetsu Expressway
• Can be visited along with a drive through Mount Futagami Park
• Parking available

Practical Travel Notes

• Best season and time: Fresh greenery and autumn foliage are especially lovely, and a weekday daytime is ideal to savor the stillness
• To avoid crowds: Visitors are few even on ordinary days, making it a relaxed hidden gem
• Time needed: About 20 to 30 minutes for a visit and stroll of the grounds, or half a day combined with a Mount Futagami walk
• Real nearby spots: Mount Futagami Park with its lookout and walking paths, the statue of Otomo no Yakamochi, and the Manyoshu-linked Mount Futagami area
• Budget feel: Visiting is free, and the surrounding stroll can be enjoyed at no cost

A Quick Tip

The Mount Futagami area has well-kept walking paths and lookout spots, so it pairs well with hiking and strolling. It is also a place sung of in the Manyoshu, so take your time and reflect on its history as you explore. If you walk the mountain trails, comfortable shoes are reassuring.

📚 Sources

This article is based on the shrine traditions of Futagami Imizu Shrine, the former site of Imizu Shrine which is the first-ranked shrine of the old Etchu Province, tourist guidance for Takaoka City, on-site information on rites such as the Tsukiyama event and lion dance and the Manyo-linked scenery of the Futagami mountain area, and information on Futagami Park, the Manyosen, and JR Takaoka Station. Rites and access may change. Access may change, so please confirm the latest details on the official sources before your visit.

Visitor Checklist

• Estimated time: About 20 to 30 minutes for the visit and grounds, or half a day with a Futagami mountain walk.
• Best timing: A quiet spot with few visitors; weekday daytime for stillness.
• What to bring: Wear comfortable shoes if walking the Futagami trails.
• Access: About a 15-minute walk from JR Takaoka Station, or within walking distance of a Manyosen stop.
• Nearby spots: Futagami Park with its observatory and trails, the Otomo no Yakamochi statue, and the Manyo-linked Futagami area.

Practical Information for Your Visit

• Location: 1519 Futagami, Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture
• Tsukiyama Festival: Held every year on April 23 from 14:00 to 16:00. The deity is welcomed to an altar built in front of the three cedars in the precincts, and after a lion dance by the local young men's association, a boat-shaped portable shrine is brought in to pray for a good harvest. Designated an Intangible Folk Cultural Property by Toyama Prefecture
• Access by car: About 10 minutes from the Takaoka-kita Interchange on the Noetsu Expressway, and about 15 minutes from Takaoka Station on the Ainokaze Toyama Railway
• Parking: The guides on Takaoka Kanko Navi and Toyama Kanko Navi state "no parking available." If you come by car, please check the situation locally
• Inquiries: 0766-25-1766 (Futagami Imizu Shrine)
• Official information: Takaoka Kanko Navi (official site of the Takaoka City Tourism Association) / Toyama Kanko Navi (official Toyama Prefecture tourism website)

* The above is a guide based on information published by each facility and local government. Times and fees are subject to change, so please check official information before you set out.