The god of salt affectionately known as “Shiogama-sama”

Shiogama Shrine is Located in Shiogama, between Sendai and Matsushima. This shrine has been famous for over 1200 years. It is said to be the god of the sea and salt because it enshrines Shiotsuchi Ojinokami, who passed down the techniques of salt production. So it is revered for its purifying effects, including maritime safety and prosperous business. The wide precincts are rich in nature and full of highlights. We will introduce Shiogama Shrine, which makes you feel refreshed every time you visit.

Climb the 202 stone steps to clear your mind

From Sendai Station, take the JR Senseki Line for about 30 minutes to Honshiogama Station. The air in the port town of Shiogama is really gentle. Follow the information board from the station and arrive at Omotesando of “Shiogama Shrine” in about 15 minutes. To visit Shiogama Shrine, which sits on a small hill overlooking Matsushima Bay, climb 202 stone steps. The steep slopes may take your breath away. But the cedar forest-covered approach is soothing with the breeze blowing and the chirping of birds.

In addition to the Omotesando, there is also a gentle stone-paved back approach and a winding approach called “Nanamagarizaka”. The scenery and atmosphere are different, so it might be a good idea to walk on different slopes before and after your visit.

Ichinomiya of Mutsu Province with a history of over 1200 years

Shiogama Shrine boasts a history of more than 1200 years. It is known locally as “Oyama” and nationally as “Shiogama-sama”. The main enshrined deity, Shido-Oojin, is the god of the sea and salt. Shido-Oojin is said to have taught people how to make salt. He is said to have benefits such as maritime safety, prosperous business, and purification.

When visiting Shiogama Shrine, one thing to keep in mind is the order of worship. The main enshrined deity is enshrined in the “Betsugu” on the east side. After visiting here, let’s visit the “Soumiya” in front. Betsugu means “special”.

Shiogama Shrine’s “Goshinen”, which is said to have purified properties

Shiogama Shrine is known locally as a place with strong purifying properties, as it enshrines the god of salt. As it is also a god who controls the current, it is said that you can expect to get rid of bad feelings and improve your luck. At the conferment office, “Goshinshio”, picked up from the altar, is distributed. “Kirinusa” used for exorcism is also enclosed. And it is said that if you always wear it, it will protect you from trouble.

Gifts that make you feel closer to Shiogama-sama

Goshuin can be obtained at the red seal office in the precincts. “Worship, Mutsu Province, Ichinomiya” is written on the spread. Along with Shiogama Shrine, the seal of Shiwahiko Shrine is also stamped. Shiwahiko Shrine is in the same precincts and enshrines the god of protection of agriculture.

The omikuji is the “Musuhimikuji”, which is only available at Shiogama Shrine. “Musuhi” represents the spiritual power that gives birth to all things from ancient times. It is said that if you take this “Musuhimikuji” home with you, you will receive blessings.

There are many rare plants such as “Shiogamazakura” and “Tarayou” in the precincts.

In the precincts of Shiogama Shrine, you can also see rare plants. “Shiogamazakura” is a double cherry tree of the Satozakura type. In the Heian period, Emperor Horikawa wrote a song about this famous cherry blossom, and it is designated as a natural monument. The raw wood died because it was an old tree, but it has been carefully nurtured and planted to this day.

The Tarayo of Shiogama Shrine, which stands next to the Soumiya, is a precious old tree that is said to be 600 to 700 years old. Tara leaf is also called “a postcard tree” because letters can be written on the leaves. The wide precincts are rich in nature and you can see rare plants, and you can also see Matsushima Bay. After visiting the shrine, take a leisurely stroll to refresh your mind and body.

Information

Address: 1-1 Ichimoriyama, Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture

Tell: 022-367-1611

Business hours: January 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
February and November 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
March-October 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
December 8:30 am to 3:30 pm