Hodosan Shrine — Attraction in Nagatoro

Hodosan shrine enshrines the Emperor Jimmu who founded Japan. I instantly felt an atmosphere, enhanced by the shinto music playing on the grounds, as we approached the torii of the shrine.

The benevolence of the shrine is believed to be protection from disasters. It is a common place for hikers to pay homage as one of the three Kami (Gods / Deity) enshrined here is a mountain deity. But it is also because the shrine has a sub branch at the top of Mt Hodo - hikers pray at the base shrine and then climb to the top of Mt Hodo and devote there too.

The architecture of the almost 2000 year old shrine is magnificent. The various auxiliary shrines are impressive too. And the grounds are beautiful. It is easily accessible by public transport too, as you can walk up from Nagatoro station in about 10...

It was a nice walk up to the shrine and the shrine grounds were well kept. The main shrine made in the Kabuto style was gorgeous. I did not get too close as it seemed they were praying for the transition of the Imperial eras. At the entrance area there is a snack kiosk with yamabu miso softcream , it's sounds like it wouldn't be good, but if you like salty-sweet and miso soup , you will like this. There's just enough miso flavor for the umami-saltiness without it being...

Absolutely worth coming to see the plum blossoms! It was my first time witnessing such beautiful and fragrant plum blossoms – truly delightful. Taking the ropeway round trip costs 600 yen, and if you come by car, parking is 500 yen. I highly recommend coming here to relax; starting from January, you can enjoy the plum blossoms, and they should be in full bloom...