Tsubaki Grand Shrine

Tsubaki Grand Shrine (Tsubaki Okami Yashiro) is considered one of Japan’s oldest shrines, said to have been founded around the time Ise Jingu was first enshrined at its present location. The main shrine enshrines Sarutahiko Okami, revered as the "guiding ancestral deity" who led the gods to Takachiho during the descent of the heavenly grandchild (Tenson Korin). Because Sarutahiko Okami is believed to guide people toward the right path, the shrine is associated with blessings such as warding off misfortune, good luck, and protection from illness. Next to Tsubaki Grand Shrine is Tsubaki Kishin Shrine, which enshrines Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto, the wife of Sarutahiko Okami and a deity widely known as the goddess of performing arts, attracting many worshippers from the entertainment world. At the same time, Ame-no-Uzume-no-Mikoto is also seen as a devoted spouse, so the shrine is famous for blessings related to harmonious marriages and good relationships. Many of the shrine’s amulets and ema votive plaques feature camellia designs, which has also earned it enduring popularity among women. To reach Tsubaki Grand Shrine, it’s smooth and convenient to get off at Kintetsu Yokkaichi Station or JR Yokkaichi Station and transfer to a bus bound for Tsubaki Grand Shrine. A free parking lot is also available, so it can be accessed by car as well.