As one of Japan’s oldest shrines, Suwa Taisha serves as the head shrine of approximately 25,000 Suwa shrines throughout the nation. Its unique configuration of four sanctuaries—two upper and two lower shrines—positioned on opposite sides of Lake Suwa speaks to the profound faith maintained since ancient times. The “Onbashira Festival,” held once every seven years, is renowned worldwide as one of Japan’s Three Great Strange Festivals.
The “Four Shrine Pilgrimage” visiting both Upper Shrines (Maemiya and Honmiya) and both Lower Shrines (Harumiya and Akimiya) is popular as a way to fully receive the power that fills the Suwa region. The ancient form of worship that venerates nature itself as the sacred body, without traditional main halls, preserves the original essence of Japanese Shinto to this day. About 2 hours by limited express from Tokyo, why not embark on a journey to purify body and mind at this sacred site embraced by Shinshu’s magnificent nature?
Spiritual Benefits and Effects
Victory and Good Fortune: Takeminakata-no-Kami is known as a war deity, believed to support success in competitions and new challenges.
Abundant Harvests and Industry Prosperity: Also worshipped as an agricultural deity, blessings include bountiful harvests and business success.
Matchmaking and Family Safety: Yasakatome-no-Kami is enshrined as a consort deity, known for blessings of finding good relationships and family harmony.
Protection from Wind and Water: Suwa Myojin is considered a deity governing wind and water, enabling prayers for protection from wind and flood damage.
Recovery from Illness and Longevity: Given the region’s hot springs, the area has long been known for recuperation and health prayers.
Suwa Taisha is a place filled with energies of “determination” and “advancement.” As a shrine venerating a war deity, it is known as a power spot where those facing life turning points or new challenges can receive encouragement.
Many pilgrims report that by visiting all four shrines, they strengthen their “resolve” at the Upper Shrines and gain the power of “action” at the Lower Shrines. The area before Kamisha Honmiya’s worship hall is particularly noted as a spot where strong energy is felt.
“I visited when I had decided to start my own business. The moment I touched the Onbashira pillar, my doubts mysteriously vanished, and I felt ‘I just have to do this.’ Now my company is on track.” (Man in his 40s, Tokyo)
“After completing the pilgrimage to all four shrines, I felt my mind had been organized and cleared. Sensing different atmospheres at each shrine, it became valuable time for self-reflection.” (Woman in her 30s, Kanagawa)
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
“The Four Shrine Pilgrimage Helped Organize My Life” (Man in his 50s, Saitama)
“Before retirement, I did the four shrine pilgrimage to contemplate my future. Sensing different atmospheres at each shrine, I renewed my determination at Kamisha Honmiya and finished with a peaceful heart at Shimosha Akimiya. By the time I left, my thoughts had organized themselves, and I felt positive about the future.”
“Overwhelmed by the Onbashira’s Presence” (Woman in her 30s, Osaka)
“The actual Onbashira pillars have far more presence than photos suggest. Feeling the warmth of the wood when I touched it and sensing the history of festivals continuing for hundreds of years moved me deeply.”
“The Perfect Trip Combining Hot Springs” (Couple in their 40s, Aichi)
“We stayed at a hot spring inn by Lake Suwa after worship. The combination of shrines, hot springs, and delicious sake was perfect. We want to return in different seasons.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to visit all four shrines?
A: Approximately 3-4 hours by car; 5-6 hours by public transportation. For leisurely worship at each shrine, we recommend spending a full day.
Q: When is the Onbashira Festival held?
A: In years of the Tiger and Monkey. The next is scheduled for 2028 (Year of the Monkey). “Kiotoshi” is held in early April; “Satobiki” in May.
Q: Are the goshuin different at each shrine?
A: Yes, each of the four shrines offers different goshuin. A special four shrine pilgrimage goshuin book is also available, popular among collectors.
Q: What should I be aware of for winter worship?
A: The Suwa region can drop below -10°C (-14°F) during the coldest period. Cold weather preparation is essential. When there’s snow, the grounds become slippery, so wear appropriate footwear.
Q: Do parking lots get crowded?
A: New Year, Golden Week, and autumn foliage season see crowding. Shimosha Akimiya’s parking lot fills up particularly quickly; early arrival is recommended.
Summary
As one of Japan’s oldest shrines with over 2,000 years of history, Suwa Taisha is Shinshu’s premier power spot. Its primordial worship form venerating nature as the divine body without traditional main halls, the septennial Onbashira Festival, and the mystical winter Omiwatari phenomenon give it unique attractions found nowhere else.
Each of the four shrines possesses its own distinct atmosphere, and the four shrine pilgrimage—strengthening “resolve” at the Upper Shrines and gaining the power of “action” at the Lower Shrines—is ideal for those at life’s crossroads. Known as a deity of war and victory, Suwa Myojin powerfully encourages those facing new challenges.
About 2 hours by limited express from Tokyo. Why not set out on a journey to experience the power of this sacred site continuing from ancient times, along with Lake Suwa’s spectacular views, famous hot springs, and Shinshu’s fine cuisine?
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*Information in this article is current as of December 2025. Please verify the latest details via the official website before visiting.*
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