Yanagisawa Shrine
| Address | 2-18 Jonai-cho, Yamatokoriyama-shi, Nara 639-1011 |
|---|---|
| Phone | 0743-55-1100 |
| Store hours | Shrine office (reception/prayer desk）: 9:00-16:00 During Oshiro-matsuri Festival: 9:00-21:00 Closed: Irregular |
Overview
Enshrined in Yamatokoriyama Castle’s Honmaru Ruins, Yanagisawa Shrine deifies Yanagisawa Minonokami Yoshiyasu who was the fifth shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi’s chamberlain and who was also responsible for the revival the Yanagisawa clan. After Yoshiyasu became lord of the Kawagoe Kofu Castle, his son Yoshisato was transferred to Koriyama from Kofu with 150,000 kokus (fiefs) and ruled this land for six generations spanning 140 years until the Meiji Restoration, leading this land to prosperity. In 1880, the shrine was founded to honor the lord’s achievements and pray for the prosperity and well-being of Yamatokoriyama.
Special Features
Yamatokoriyama’s kingyo (goldfish) industry is said to have its origin in Lord Yoshisato’s beloved pet goldfish which he brought to Koriyama. The shrine grounds and Castle Ruins area are known for its cherry blossoms (one of Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots). Every year starting in late March, a 10-day “Oshiro Festival” is held where kingyo are displayed, attracting many visitors and flower viewers.
Parking
Available (5 spaces)
(For prayer participants only)
(For prayer participants only)
Access
Train: 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Line's Koriyama Station
15-minute walk from JR Koriyama Station
15-minute walk from JR Koriyama Station