Ashikaga Orihime Shrine

If you are looking to meet the perfect partner, then why not take a trip to famous power spot Ashikaga Orihime Shrine, and ask the gods to help?

Many people come to the shrine to find their perfect match, not just from Ashikaga but from all over the country. Ashikaga has boasted a rich textile industry since 1,300 years ago. Ashikaga Orihime Shrine was established in 1705, when Toda Tadatoki, lord of the Ashikaga domain and then ruler of the area, called on the two deities of weaving to become guardians of the shrine. As fabric is weaved by entwining the warp and weft of yarn, the deities enshrined in Ashikaga—one male and one female—became known as the deities of marriage.

Ashikaga Orihime Shrine is halfway up Mount Orihime, We recommend you go through Ichi-no-torii (the first torii gate on the steeper hill). On the other side of the torii are 229 steps. It is said that if you climb the steps up to the shrine grounds, your wish will be granted. When you reach the top of the steps, the vivid vermillion main shrine building—said to be modeled on Byodo-in’s Phoenix Hall in Uji, Kyoto—will appear before you. The building, known as Oka no Ryugujo, (the land palace of the dragon king) is undeniably beautiful. On the way down, take the gentler slope (unless you have mobility issues) and exit through the seven colored gates to ensure luck and positive links to people, your health, knowledge, studies, work, and management. Be careful. The road is unpaved so please be aware of your footing on the way down.

In addition to this, when night falls you can see the elaborate main building lit up and can look down on the townscape at night. As this, along with Orihime Park was awarded the status of Japan’s 10th best heritage night view, it is a real must-see. It is lit every night from 5:00 pm to midnight. (Opening times change according to the season.) It is definitely worth seeing if you have time.