A unique shrine with a descending approach: you descend stairs from the main gate to reach the main hall. The main hall, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, features exquisite carvings and exudes a majestic atmosphere.
Overview
Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine, located in Tomioka City, Gunma Prefecture, is a historic shrine that has garnered the faith of people for generations. Legend says it was once built as an armory during a conflict between gods, adding to its profound history.
The shrine's most distinctive feature is its unusual descending approach—visitors descend stairs from the main gate to reach the main hall. This is believed to be related to the area's once-rugged mountainous terrain.
The main hall, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is adorned with magnificent carvings, creating a solemn and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Notably, the staircase leading to the haiden (worship hall) features decorations including what are believed to be heart-shaped boar's eyes, captivating visitors.
The grounds are dotted with a sacred tree said to be 1200 years old and various subsidiary shrines, allowing for a leisurely stroll amid history and nature, while enjoying the beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.
Ichinomiya Nukisaki Shrine, a harmonious blend of history and nature, is cherished as a powerful spiritual spot by many.
Take the JR Takasaki Line or Joetsu Shinkansen to Takasaki Station. From there, take the Joshin Electric Railway for approximately 45 minutes and get off at Joshin-Ichinomiya Station. The shrine is a 15-minute walk from the station.
From Tomioka IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway: approximately 20 minutes
(1) Turn left at the Tomioka IC exit, then left onto National Route 254 towards Shimonita. Turn right at the first traffic light onto Prefectural Route 47. After passing the second traffic light, you'll see a large torii gate on your left. Pass through the torii gate and go up the hill; you'll see the vermillion-lacquered main gate on your right.
(2) Turn left at the Tomioka IC exit and follow the road. Turn left onto the National Route 254 bypass and continue until you reach the "Ichinomiya Kita" traffic light. Turn right onto Prefectural Route 47, and you'll see a large torii gate on your left. Turn left, pass through the torii gate, and continue up the hill; you'll see the vermillion-lacquered main gate on your right.
From Shimonita IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway: approximately 20 minutes
Turn right at the Shimonita IC exit and onto National Route 254. Follow the road until you reach the two-lane bypass of Route 254. Turn left at the "Ichinomiya Kita" traffic light onto Prefectural Route 47, and you'll see a large torii gate on your left. Pass through the torii gate and go up the hill; you'll see the vermillion-lacquered main gate on your right.
*There is no designated parking lot, but parking is not prohibited near the main gate.
*A free municipal parking lot is located west of the main gate. Large buses should use this lot. Show route
Op.Hours
Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Cld.Days
None
Fee
Free
INFO
The main gate (Soumon) is open 24 hours a day, but the tower gate (Roumon) is open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. There is no dedicated parking lot, but parking near the main gate is not prohibited. A free municipal parking lot is located west of the main gate; large buses should utilize this lot.