Aitsuchi Jinja Shrine
shrine
Aitsuchi Jinja Shrine
相槌神社
Overview
Aitsuchi Jinja Shrine is strongly associated with sword making, as the well beside the shrine contains water thought to be suitable for creating excellent swords.
Aitsuchi Shrine is closely tied to the art of swordsmithing. The well beside it is said to have supplied water used by the legendary craftsmen Gorodayu Yasutsuna and Sanjo Munechika to forge blades in the late Heian period, including Higekiri and Hizamaru, prized swords of the Minamoto clan. According to legend, the deity Inari appeared to help complete the work, and the shrine was founded afterward in gratitude. The well was paved in the Edo period, and the path beside the shrine leads up Mt. Otokoyama to Iwashimizu Hachimangu. A compact, quiet stop with an unusually specific story behind it.
Local tips
Purify your hands at the temizuya before approaching the main hall. Left hand first, then right, then pour water into your left hand to rinse your mouth.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 相槌神社
- Nearest station
- Uji Station (25 min bus)
- Payment
- Cash only
- Reservations
- not required
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