Samukawa Shrine (Samukawa Town, Koza District, Kanagawa Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Samukawa Shrine has long been a place of worship as Sagami Province's Ichinomiya Shrine, and is known nationwide for its protection from all directions and warding off evil. The main deities enshrined are said to be Samukawahiko-no-Mikoto and Samukawahime-no-Mikoto, and worshippers come to pray for protection from misfortunes related to direction and orientation, as well as for a wide range of benefits, including traffic safety, safety for the home, and business prosperity. The grounds have a tranquil atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy seasonal plantings. The shrine is known for its particularly popular prayers (prayers for warding off evil) held during unlucky years and milestone years.

Highlights

• Majestic shrine and worship hall: As you walk along the approach, you will come across the worship hall and main hall, neatly arranged, exuding a dignified presence.
• The large torii gate and the atmosphere of the approach to the shrine: The scenery of the approach to the shrine and the torii gate are popular photo spots.
• Beliefs and prayers for protection from all directions: The shrine is famous for its prayers for protection from all directions and protection from misfortune, and many worshippers come to pray for milestone years or to mark the start of new businesses (prayers are accepted at any time, but there may be a waiting time when it is busy).
• Seasonal nature: The trees within the temple grounds are beautiful in every season, from fresh greenery in spring to colorful leaves in autumn, making it a great place for a stroll.
• Annual Events: The first shrine visit of the year (especially around New Year's Day) is crowded, but it is a traditional event that many people visit. The Setsubun Festival and other annual festivals are also worth seeing.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Train: Get off at Samukawa Station on the JR Sagami Line and walk for about 10 minutes (there are signs showing the way from the station to the temple grounds).
• From major cities: From Tokyo, the most common route is to take the JR Tokaido Line to Chigasaki or Hiratsuka and then transfer to the Sagami Line.
• Bus/Taxi: In addition to Samukawa Station, buses and taxis are available from surrounding major stations (Hiratsuka and Chigasaki).
• By car: Accessible from national highways and expressways (Ken-O Expressway, etc.). There is a parking lot at the shrine, but we recommend using public transportation due to congestion and traffic restrictions during New Year's visits and festivals.
• Note: In principle, the temple grounds are open to the public (though some areas of the grounds are open 24 hours a day, the gift shop and prayer reception desk have opening hours). It is best to check the official website in advance for opening hours for the gift shop and prayer reception desk.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Regular visit: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including visiting the shrine, purchasing amulets, and strolling around the grounds)
• Prayers and detailed worship: 1 to 1.5 hours (it may take longer if there is a waiting time for prayer reception)
• During New Year's visits and festivals: You will need to deal with waiting times and crowds, so it is best to plan for at least two hours.

Nearby spots

• Shonan area (Enoshima and Shonan Coast): Approximately 30 minutes by car or train. Convenient for combining with coastal walks and gourmet food.
• Kamakura: There are many historic temples, shrines, and tourist spots, and you can visit it as a day trip from Samukawa Shrine (about 30-40 minutes by train or car).
• Tourist attractions in Hiratsuka and Chigasaki: You can also visit local attractions such as Shonandai in Hiratsuka and Southern Beach in Chigasaki.
• Local stroll: There are also restaurants and cafes in Samukawa town, so you can enjoy local cuisine after visiting the shrine.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: The first shrine visit of the year (especially the first few days after New Year's Day) is extremely crowded. Parking lots and surrounding roads are also crowded, so we recommend taking measures such as using public transportation and choosing to go early in the morning or in the evening. Events such as festivals and Setsubun also cause crowds.
• Prayers and Conferment Office: The reception hours for the conferment office and prayers may be limited. If you are planning to receive a goshuin (stamp), omamori (charm), or prayer, please check the official information in advance.
• Worship Manners: Please observe proper worship etiquette, such as purifying yourself at the temizuya (purification fountain), bowing twice, clapping twice, and bowing once more. Please also be aware of restrictions on photography during religious ceremonies and festivals, and be considerate of other worshippers (remain quiet, keep to a queue, etc.).
• Clothing and Safety: While most areas within the temple grounds are paved, there are some areas that can become slippery when it rains. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
• Pets: The handling of pets within the grounds varies depending on the shrine. If you are bringing pets with you, please check in advance and be considerate of other worshippers (keeping them on a leash, cleaning up their waste, etc.).
• Check the latest information: Festival dates, prayer reception times, parking restrictions, etc. are subject to change. Please check the latest information on Samukawa Shrine's official website and social media before visiting.

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*The above is a general guide for worship and sightseeing. For more details (such as how to apply for prayers, the types of gifts available, and specific event dates), please check the official Samukawa Shrine information.