Sakurayama Shrine

Sakurayama Shrine, located in the center of Morioka, remains an essential part of daily life. This shrine, along with the Iwate Museum of Art, makes the perfect stop on a tour of Morioka.

Sakurayama Shrine

Photo by: PIXTA/ skipinof Eboshi-iwa (Guardian Rock)

In 1749 the Edo lord Nanbu Toshimi established the shrine on the grounds of Morioka Castle, enshrining his ancestors as gods. All that remains of the castle itself are the foundational stone walls, but Sakurayama Shrine has endured. The earliest members of the Nanbu clan are still worshipped as deities to this day.

This shrine is now considered a spiritual ‘power spot’, and visitors come from far and wide to seek protective blessings. Priests can perform ceremonies for the health of children and protection for people said to be entering difficult years. They will even enact rituals to bestow safety on newly purchased cars! Worshippers can also purchase omamori (talismans) and small Shinto shrines to protect the home.

One notable feature of the shrine complex is the Eboshi-iwa (Guardian Rock). The rock was deemed auspicious when it was unearthed during the construction of Morioka Castle and locals continue to revere it as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune.

Beyond its spiritual function, the shrine serves as a community event space. The Sanshuden Hall within the shrine complex features Western and Japanese-style rooms that can be hired for occasions including banquets, meetings, lectures, and exhibitions.

Shrine Festivals

Sakurayama Shrine comes to life most vibrantly during several festivals throughout the year. Two festivals in particular represent the shrine’s unique history and traditions.

The first is the annual Sakurayama Shrine Festival, held from May 25-27 each year. On the first day, warriors parade through the streets of Morioka on horseback, following the mikoshi (portable shrine) and crowds can enjoy traditional performing arts. On the second day, offerings of local seafood, mountain produce and poetry are made to the shrine.

Every January 26, Sakurayama Shrine holds the Donto Festival. This is when locals return the previous year’s household shrines and talismans. Once returned, the shrines and talismans are burned and prayers are offered for good health and harvest in the new year.

When night falls, it is time for the most popular event of all: the Naked Pilgrimage. Members of the Morioka City Fire Brigade brave the winter night in nothing but a loincloth and a straw raincoat, and process through the city to the chiming of a bell.