Tsubaki Grand Shrine (Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Tsubaki Okami Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture, and many people visit the shrine seeking blessings such as road opening, traffic safety, and protection from disasters. The shrine has had a quiet shrine grounds with a mountain forest as its backdrop since ancient times, and is known for the many camellia trees planted there, as the "Tsubaki" (camellia) in the shrine's name suggests. The main deities enshrined are gods of guidance, including Sarutahiko Okami (the god of guidance), and are worshipped as guardians who open up paths in life and work.

The grounds are surrounded by a lush forest, and in addition to being able to enjoy the charm of traditional shrine architecture such as the approach, torii gate, and main hall, the shrine also has its own unique festivals and prayers, and you can receive goshuin (stamps) and omamori (amulet) charms. It is often introduced as a "power spot" in the middle of nature, and is perfect for quiet worship and strolls.

Highlights

• Main hall and worship hall: A traditional shrine building where you can make formal worship. It has a solemn atmosphere.
• Camellia Forest and Approach: In season, the camellia flowers are a highlight. You can enjoy nature in all four seasons.
• Goshuin (red seal) and amulets: You can receive a goshuin stamp at the shrine office (check the official information for reception hours and precautions to take when it is crowded). Charms for traffic safety and protection from evil spirits are popular.
• Prayer and prayer: You can apply for various prayers, such as prayers for traffic safety, safety in the home, and business prosperity (we recommend making a reservation and checking reception hours in advance).
• Nature walks within the temple grounds: You can spend a relaxing time walking through the forest and paths within the shrine grounds. There are also many photo spots.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• public transport: Access by bus or taxi from the nearest station is common. Bus routes may also depart from stations on major lines such as Kintetsu and JR, so please check the timetable and route in advance.
• car: Convenient access via the Tomei-Meihan Expressway and national highways. Many temples have parking lots for visitors within their grounds, making it easy to visit by car (check official information for parking space numbers and fees).
• NoteIf you are coming by public transport, please note that some routes may have limited service, so please check the latest timetable and nearest bus and taxi stops before setting off.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Visit only: 30 minutes to 1 hour (including visiting the shrine and receiving a goshuin stamp and amulet)
• Including strolling and prayer: 1.5 to 3 hours
• If you want to take your time taking photos and walking around the area, you should plan on spending about half a day.

Nearby spots

• Suzuka Circuit: A motorsports theme park. Popular with families and as a base for watching races.
• Ise Shrine (Ise City): It is about an hour's drive away, and many visitors combine it with a tour of other shrines.
• Nagashima Onsen and Amusement Park Area: Located within driving distance, it is ideal for combining accommodation and sightseeing.
• Additionally, there are many local gourmet and natural spots scattered around Suzuka City, so please consider sightseeing in the area as part of your visit plans.

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

• congestion: The temple will be crowded with many visitors on New Year's visits, festivals, and long weekends. Please be aware of waiting times for goshuin stamps and crowded parking lots.
• Worship etiquette: When passing through the torii gate and on the approach to the shrine, please be considerate of those walking ahead, and at the main shrine, please observe the proper etiquette of two bows, two claps, and one bow. Please refrain from shouting or eating or drinking around the worship hall.
• photo shoot: Photography is permitted in most areas within the temple grounds, but photography may be restricted inside the main hall or during religious ceremonies. Please follow the instructions of the signs and staff.
• Seasonal precautions: Winter is the best time to see the camellias, but be sure to take precautions against the cold. The approach to the shrine can easily become muddy during the rainy season and on rainy days, so we recommend wearing non-slip shoes. In summer, be sure to take precautions against the sun and stay hydrated.
• Check for the latest information: Festivals, visiting hours, prayer reception, parking information, etc. are subject to change. Please check the official website or contact details of Tsubaki Grand Shrine before visiting for the latest information.

(Note) Specific bus routes and times, parking details, and temple seal reception times are subject to change. Please be sure to check the official information before visiting.