Rokuso Shrine

Overview

Rokuso Shrine was founded by Kiyoyasu Matsudaira, the grandfather of Tokugawa Ieyasu. Legend says that the shrine's deities were invited from Rokuso Shrine in Matsudaira-go, the birthplace of the Matsudaira clan (and thus the Tokugawa clan). As Ieyasu Tokugawa's guardian deity, it received strong protection from the Edo Shogunate and continues to attract many worshippers seeking prayers for safe childbirth. The grounds are filled with historically significant structures, including the gate, haiden, and main hall, all designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Legend even states that only daimyo with 50,000 koku or more were permitted to ascend the stone steps leading to the gate. Originally, the shrine enshrined six deities, invited from Shiogama Rokuso Myojin (the six deities of Shiogama Shrine). Okazaki's Rokuso Shrine is said to be a branch shrine enshrining three of these deities: Sarutahiko-no-mikoto, Shiotsu-no-okina-mikoto, and Koto-satsunori-nagasa-mikoto. Today, twelve deities are enshrined in total. Every October, the "Rokuso Shrine Festival" is held, bringing the local community together. Rokuso Shrine is a powerful place offering a palpable sense of history and tradition, while also remaining a popular spot for prayers for safe childbirth. It's highly recommended for history buffs, those interested in power spots, or anyone seeking blessings for a safe pregnancy. Be sure to pay a visit!