Shrines of Japan: Miyagi Prefecture ~ Takekoma Shrine Part.2~

Here’s Part 2 of our introduction to Takekoma Shrine, located in Iwanuma City, Miyagi Prefecture.

As you walk past the rest area along the shrine approach, a majestic rōmon gate comes into view.

Just behind the guardian foxes, you’ll spot the impressive rōmon gate.

As an Inari shrine, the grounds are dotted with numerous fox statues.

With ears standing tall and sharp, piercing eyes, these fox statues have a dignified presence.

And here is the majestic rōmon gate.

Because I visited in the New Year season, a celebratory ‘Kinga Shinnen’ sign was displayed at the gate.

This historic rōmon gate, constructed in 1812, has been designated a cultural property by the city of Iwanuma.

Right after walking through the rōmon gate, there’s a temizuya for ritual cleansing, but it wasn’t in use at that time.

This is the shaden — the main sanctuary where prayers are offered.

Oops, I took this photo way too close!

I should’ve taken a photo of the entire building — it’s hard to tell what it looks like from this.

So, I’ve borrowed the image below from the official website of Takekoma Shrine.

Here’s a complete view of the shaden — the main shrine building.

You can really feel the history and grandeur of the shrine.

According to the shrine’s official record, it was established in 842, giving it a remarkable history of over 1,180 years.

You can sense the depth and richness of time and tradition in every corner of this sacred place.

On the left side of the main shrine stands an impressive row of associated shrines — both sessha and massha.

It’s fun to admire each of them individually, as each shrine has its own character.

There’s even a massha (subordinate shrine) of the famous Izumo Taisha here. It somehow feels extra meaningfu

Hopefully, the prayers offered here will be heard at Izumo Taisha as well.

I spotted some adorable fox-shaped ema. They really seem like they’d bring blessings!

Pictured below is the remains of the original main sanctuary, situated behind the present-day shrine.

The original structure was tragically destroyed by an act of arson in 1990 (Heisei 2).

Pictured below is the Myōbu-sha, a small shrine situated behind the main hall.

The foxes known as Myōbu are said to act as messengers, bringing people’s prayers to the gods.

Beside it stands the Okumiya, the inner shrine.

Climbing the steps to the Okumiya leads you to a Yōhaijo — a sacred spot for worshipping from afar.

Beyond the main shrine where you offer your prayers, Takekoma Shrine has many fascinating spots worth visiting.

In early spring, the blooming plum trees add a touch of elegance and serenity to the shrine’s atmosphere.

As I walk through the shrine, I occasionally feel as if I’ve stepped back into the elegant world of the Heian period.

If you ever find yourself in Miyagi, I highly recommend a visit to Takekoma Shrine — a place where history, nature, and quiet elegance come together beautifully.