Hakone Shrine (箱根神社, Hakone Jinja) – A Haven of History, Peace, and Blessings

Nestled in the lush surroundings of Hakone, Hakone Shrine (箱根神社, Hakone Jinja) has been a site of worship and pilgrimage for over 1,200 years. This ancient Shinto shrine was established when mountain worship was prevalent in Japan, even before Buddhism arrived. The local people believed Mount Hakone was a divine presence, serving as a bridge between the earthly and spiritual realms. Over the centuries, Hakone Shrine has attracted shogun, samurai, and countless travelers, all seeking blessings for safe journeys and prosperity.

Main Hall of Hakone Shrine

Visitors to Hakone Shrine are greeted by a stunning landscape, where towering cedar trees—some over 800 years old—surround the shrine grounds. The torii gates (鳥居, torii) of Hakone Shrine are both spiritually meaningful and visually striking. The first torii gate, located at Motohakone Port (元箱根港, Motohakone Kō), welcomes visitors arriving by boat. The famous Peace Torii (平和の鳥居, Heiwa no Torii) sits half-submerged in Lake Ashi, symbolizing a harmonious link between the natural world and spiritual peace. This gate, often seen against the calm lake, is a classic image of Japan and attracts photographers from around the world.

One of the towering cedar trees.

Hakone Shrine is famous for its many blessings, which include bringing good luck, ensuring road safety, warding off evil, and making wishes come true. Many visitors come to seek romantic blessings, making Hakone Shrine a place of deep spiritual significance. Along with Hakone Shrine, Kuzuryu Shrine (九頭龍神社, Kuzuryū Jinja) is well known for its matchmaking powers. Visitors often take part in Ryosha Mairi (両社参り, Ryōsha Mairi), visiting both Hakone and Kuzuryu Shrines, and stopping at Hakone Motomiya Shrine (箱根元宮, Hakone Motomiya Jinja) completes the Sansha Mairi (三社参り, Sansha Mairi) for even more spiritual benefits and blessings.

Kuzuryu Shrine Hongu

The shrine’s main hall houses Ninigi-no-Mikoto (瓊瓊杵尊, Ninigi-no-Mikoto), the grandson of Amaterasu, the sun goddess. Ninigi is considered the god of prosperity, promoting success in pursuits and plentiful harvests. Konohanasakuya-hime (木花之開耶姫, Konohanasakuya-hime), goddess of Mount Fuji and earthly life, is enshrined in a secondary hall and is honored for protection, safe childbirth, and family harmony. These deities, along with others, enhance Hakone Shrine’s reputation as a source of profound spiritual power and tranquility, attracting visitors from around the world.

Enjoy this very destination as part of the "Hakone - History, Nature and Culture" TOKYO MK TOUR, so follow the link below for details, and Contact Us today!

Let MK be your personal guide to Tokyo. Take advantage of our experience and hospitality to ensure your stay is smooth and unforgettable. Try our lineup of luxury vehicles and create a customized sightseeing trip around Tokyo with an English-speaking driver.

TOKYO MK TOURS