Sakatsuraisosaki Shrine

Sakatsura Isozaki Shrine is a historic shrine founded in 856 during the Heian period. It is said to have begun when Onamochi-no-Mikoto and Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto descended upon the coast at Oarai; Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto became the main deity of Sakatsura Isozaki Shrine, while Onamochi-no-Mikoto is enshrined as the main deity at Oarai Isosaki Shrine in Oarai Town. The main deity, Sukunahikona-no-Mikoto, is known as an ancestral god of medicine and pharmacy and is worshipped for recovery from illness. Blessings are also said to include sake brewing/fermentation, hot springs, learning, maritime safety, and abundant catches. One highlight is the squirrel-and-grapes carving above the worship hall entrance. It is traditionally attributed to Hidari Jingoro, the craftsman said to have made Nikko Toshogu’s “”Sleeping Cat.” For protection it is covered with wire mesh, but you can still glimpse the charming squirrel figures. The approach path is also a tunnel of camellias and tabunoki trees over 300 years old; during camellia season, the path becomes especially beautiful. Access is about a 10-minute walk from Hitachinaka Seaside Railway Minato Line “”Isozaki Station.”