
Mitsumine Shrine
A mystical mountain shrine dedicated to wolf deities, offering powerful amulets and serene, fog-kissed views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cool temperatures, fewer crowds

Mitsumine Shrine
Best Time
Cool temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A mystical mountain shrine dedicated to wolf deities, offering powerful amulets and serene, fog-kissed views.
"Phenomenal shrine up high on the mountain, often foggy but with a moody, mystical atmosphere."

🚗 Drive Carefully on Mountain Roads
Winding, narrow roads require slow, cautious driving. Consider forming convoys with other vehicles for safety.
🐺 Embrace the Wolf Theme
Mitsumine is dedicated to wolves! Explore unique wolf-themed souvenirs and amulets for a special memento.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wolf Statues and Amulets
Main Shrine Grounds
Discover the shrine's unique wolf guardians and purchase powerful, personalized amulets for good fortune.

Scenic Mountain Views
Near Parking Area
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, especially beautiful in foggy or autumn conditions.

Ancient Trees and Serene Atmosphere
Shrine Entrance and Trails
Walk among huge, ancient trees and experience the quiet, peaceful energy of this spiritual power spot.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Mountain Roads
Mystical Wolf Shrine Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hiking to Mitsumine Shrine?
🚗 Drive Carefully on Mountain Roads
Winding, narrow roads require slow, cautious driving. Consider forming convoys with other vehicles for safety.
🐺 Embrace the Wolf Theme
Mitsumine is dedicated to wolves! Explore unique wolf-themed souvenirs and amulets for a special memento.
Chichibu, Japan - Recommendations for Sightseeing, Eating, and Activities
Day Hikes in Japan?
🌫️ Moody Fog is Part of the Charm
Don't be deterred by fog; it adds to the mystical atmosphere of this mountain shrine.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some climbing and walking around the shrine grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Carefully on Mountain Roads
Winding, narrow roads require slow, cautious driving. Consider forming convoys with other vehicles for safety.
🐺 Embrace the Wolf Theme
Mitsumine is dedicated to wolves! Explore unique wolf-themed souvenirs and amulets for a special memento.
🌫️ Moody Fog is Part of the Charm
Don't be deterred by fog; it adds to the mystical atmosphere of this mountain shrine.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing some climbing and walking around the shrine grounds. :athletic_shoe:
🅿️ Parking and Entrance Fees
Be prepared to pay entrance and parking fees upon arrival at the designated parking area. :ticket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Mitsumine Shrine for its unique wolf theme, powerful amulets, and serene mountain atmosphere. The challenging yet scenic drive up is often mentioned, as is the potential for mystical foggy conditions. While generally peaceful, some note potential crowds during peak seasons like autumn.
"Accessed from the Chichibu side of Tama Kai National Park, this shrine requires navigating extremely winding, narrow mountain roads where you’ll find yourself naturally forming convoys with other vehicles for safety. Upon arrival, you’ll pay entrance and parking fees at the parking area before entering this uniquely mystical shrine.
Unlike typical Inari shrines, Mitsumine is dedicated to wolves, creating a distinctive atmosphere and offering many wolf-themed items and souvenirs. The shrine is particularly famous for its powerful amulets - you can write your name and purchase specific charms, after which the shrine priests will pray for your wishes using your written name. The scenic mountain setting adds to the spiritual experience, making this a worthwhile stop if you’re exploring the Chichibu area of Tama Kai National Park."
Minwoo Kim
"Love this Shrine. Very quiet and peaceful place. All the very narrow roads drove up here."
Juju Zhu
"Phenomenal shrine up high on the mountain. Can easily drive or take a bus up to the temple with large parking lot, toilets and a few options for food and drinks. Very often foggy at the top, but I preferred the moody atmosphere. I went on a Sunday in summer and it was a cool temperature with few other people. I bet in Fall though it is a leaf peeping madhouse as others have said"
Nathan Jirka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Driving to Mitsumine Shrine involves navigating extremely winding and narrow mountain roads. Many visitors form convoys for safety. Be prepared for a slow ascent. There is a parking area at the shrine where you will pay entrance and parking fees.
Yes, you can take a bus to Mitsumine Shrine. The bus is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive the challenging mountain roads.
There is a trail to Mitsumine Shrine, described as being lined with massive trees and small waterfalls. However, the trailhead can be quite far from the nearest train station, making it a challenging hike.
The nearest train station is typically associated with the Chichibu area. From there, you would likely need to take a bus or arrange other transport to reach the shrine, especially if not hiking.
Yes, the roads are described as extremely winding and narrow mountain roads. Drivers often form convoys for safety due to the challenging conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You will need to pay entrance and parking fees at the parking area upon arrival before entering the shrine grounds. :ticket:
While the shrine itself is generally accessible, specific prayer times or amulet purchasing hours may vary. It's best to check locally or plan your visit during daylight hours for the full experience.
There are entrance and parking fees required at the parking area. Specific costs can vary, so be prepared for these charges. :ticket:
Yes, Mitsumine Shrine is famous for its powerful amulets. You can purchase specific charms, and priests will pray for your wishes using your written name.
Yes, there is a parking fee collected at the parking area upon arrival. :ticket:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mitsumine Shrine is dedicated to wolves, creating a distinctive atmosphere unlike typical Inari shrines. It's known for its mystical ambiance and powerful wolf-themed amulets.
Visitors can see the unique wolf statues, purchase powerful amulets, admire the scenic mountain views, and experience the peaceful atmosphere among ancient trees.
Yes, many Japanese people consider Mitsumine Shrine a good power spot due to its location, ancient trees, and serene greenery.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as there is some climbing and walking around the shrine grounds. Dress appropriately for mountain weather. :athletic_shoe:
Yes, there are a few options for food and drinks available near the shrine and parking area.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the mystical wolf statues, the panoramic mountain vistas (especially in fog or autumn), and the serene beauty of the ancient trees. The winding mountain roads themselves can also make for dramatic shots.
Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas of the shrine. However, always be respectful of any posted signs or areas where photography might be restricted, especially inside main prayer halls. :camerawithflash:
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light. However, the moody fog often present can create unique and atmospheric photos at any time of day. Autumn foliage also provides stunning photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is often restricted at religious sites and national parks. It's highly recommended to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone near Mitsumine Shrine. :camerawithflash:
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive mountain views, while a telephoto lens can isolate interesting features. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or capturing fog effects. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes as there's walking involved. Be prepared for the winding mountain roads if driving; consider the bus if you're concerned about the drive. There are some food and drink options available, but packing snacks and water is always a good idea for mountain excursions.
🚗 Drivers and Road Trip Enthusiasts
Key advice for drivers: Allow ample extra time for the drive up and down the mountain. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Be aware that fog can significantly reduce visibility, so adjust your speed accordingly. The drive offers beautiful views, so take your time and enjoy the journey.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers and Nature Lovers
Embrace the peaceful and quiet atmosphere to fully absorb the shrine's energy. Consider purchasing a personalized amulet for a tangible connection to the shrine's blessings. The scenic mountain views and the opportunity to hike parts of the surrounding trails further enhance the experience for nature lovers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystical Wolf Guardians
This wolf theme extends to the souvenirs and amulets available for purchase. Mitsumine is particularly renowned for its potent amulets, known as 'omamori'. Visitors can write their names on a charm, and the shrine priests will perform prayers for their wishes. This personalized touch makes the amulets feel especially meaningful and powerful to those who receive them.
Navigating the Mountain Ascent
While driving is the most common method, there are alternative ways to reach the shrine. A bus service operates to Mitsumine, offering a less stressful option for those who prefer not to navigate the mountain roads themselves. For the truly adventurous, there is also a hiking trail that leads up the mountain to the shrine. This trail is noted for its beautiful, tree-lined path and small waterfalls, but it requires a significant commitment due to the distance from the nearest train station.
Experiencing the Serene Atmosphere
The scenic mountain setting provides breathtaking views, which can be particularly dramatic when the area is shrouded in fog. While some might find fog to be a deterrent, many visitors embrace it, finding the moody atmosphere to be incredibly mystical and beautiful. In autumn, the surrounding foliage transforms the landscape into a vibrant spectacle, though this can also lead to larger crowds.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit