伊佐爾波神社

Isaniwa Shrine is a shrine believed to bring blessings such as wish fulfillment, matchmaking, and safe childbirth, and it was founded over 1,000 years ago. It is located about a 5-minute walk from the Iyotetsu tram “”Dogo Onsen Station.”” Originally it stood at the site where Emperor Chuai and Empress Jingu are said to have stayed when visiting Dogo Onsen (around today’s Dogo Park), but it was relocated to its current location when Yuzuki Castle was built. The current shrine buildings were constructed in 1667 by Matsuyama domain’s 3rd lord, Sadnaga Matsudaira, modeled after Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine in Kyoto. Very few shrines in Japan share the same Hachiman-zukuri style; at Isaniwa, three connected shrine halls form the structure, making it especially rare. The vermilion-lacquered buildings and ornate carvings are striking. To reach the main shrine, visitors must climb 135 steep stone steps, but approaching from the Hogonji direction can make the climb a bit easier. Those with limited mobility may use a taxi or rental car and park behind the shrine near the rear parking area. A popular souvenir is the dove-shaped whistle “”Hato-bue / Fuku-bue,”” playing on the words “”fuku”” (good fortune) and “”fuku”” (to blow a flute).