三峯神社
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Mitsumine Shrine

4.6
·10k reviews·Chichibu, Japan

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cool temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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三峯神社

Mitsumine Shrine

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cool temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(10k reviews)

"Phenomenal shrine up high on the mountain, often foggy but with a moody, mystical atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wolf Statues and Amulets

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

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

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Mountain Roads

The journey to Mitsumine Shrine involves extremely winding, narrow mountain roads. Drivers often form convoys for safety. Be prepared for a slow, cautious drive up to the shrine's parking area.

Mystical Wolf Shrine Experience

Mitsumine Shrine is unique, dedicated to wolves rather than foxes. Expect a mystical atmosphere with wolf-themed items. Consider purchasing powerful amulets for personalized prayers from the priests.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cool temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter, more peaceful visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Hiking to Mitsumine Shrine?

🚗 Drive Carefully on Mountain Roads

Winding, narrow roads require slow, cautious driving. Consider forming convoys with other vehicles for safety. Reddit

🐺 Embrace the Wolf Theme

Mitsumine is dedicated to wolves! Explore unique wolf-themed souvenirs and amulets for a special memento. Reddit

reddit.com

Chichibu, Japan - Recommendations for Sightseeing, Eating, and Activities

reddit.com

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. Reddit

👟 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. Reddit

🐺 Embrace the Wolf Theme

Mitsumine is dedicated to wolves! Explore unique wolf-themed souvenirs and amulets for a special memento. Reddit

🌫️ Moody Fog is Part of the Charm

Don't be deterred by fog; it adds to the mystical atmosphere of this mountain shrine. Reddit

👟 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

4.6
(10k reviews)

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

Unique wolf theme
Powerful amulets
Peaceful mountain setting

What People Dislike

Difficult mountain roads
Potential for crowds in autumn

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the roads are described as extremely winding and narrow mountain roads. Drivers often form convoys for safety due to the challenging conditions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Visitors can see the unique wolf statues, purchase powerful amulets, admire the scenic mountain views, and experience the peaceful atmosphere among ancient trees. Reddit

Yes, many Japanese people consider Mitsumine Shrine a good power spot due to its location, ancient trees, and serene greenery. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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

Mitsumine Shrine offers a unique experience for families, particularly its distinct wolf theme which can capture children's imaginations. The short climbs and walking paths around the shrine are generally manageable for families, though younger children might need assistance on steeper sections. The peaceful atmosphere provides a calm environment for a family outing. Consider purchasing a wolf-themed amulet as a special souvenir for the kids. Reddit

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

For those who enjoy scenic drives, the journey to Mitsumine Shrine is an experience in itself. The winding mountain roads offer a thrilling, albeit challenging, drive. It's essential to be prepared for narrow passages and to drive cautiously, perhaps even forming a convoy with other vehicles for added safety. The parking area at the shrine makes access convenient once you arrive. Reddit

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

Mitsumine Shrine is a highly recommended destination for those seeking a spiritual retreat and a connection with nature. The shrine's dedication to wolf deities imbues the site with a unique mystical energy, and its reputation as a power spot draws many visitors looking for spiritual rejuvenation. The serene environment, surrounded by ancient trees and lush greenery, offers a perfect setting for meditation and quiet contemplation. Reddit

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

Unlike many shrines dedicated to foxes, Mitsumine Shrine is uniquely devoted to wolves. These wolf deities are believed to be messengers of the mountain gods and protectors. You'll find numerous wolf statues throughout the shrine grounds, often depicted with keys in their mouths, symbolizing the guarding of treasures or secrets. This distinct focus creates a powerful and somewhat mysterious atmosphere that sets Mitsumine apart from other Japanese shrines. Visitors often feel a strong spiritual connection to these ancient guardians. Reddit

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. Reddit

Navigating the Mountain Ascent

The journey to Mitsumine Shrine is an adventure in itself. The shrine is perched high on a mountain, accessible via extremely winding and narrow mountain roads. Many drivers report forming natural convoys with other vehicles as they ascend, a testament to the challenging nature of the route. It's crucial to drive slowly and cautiously, paying close attention to the road conditions and other drivers. Reddit

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. Reddit

Experiencing the Serene Atmosphere

Mitsumine Shrine is celebrated for its quiet and peaceful ambiance. Nestled high in the mountains, it offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. The presence of huge, ancient trees and lush greenery contributes to the shrine's reputation as a powerful spiritual site, or 'power spot', for many Japanese visitors. The air feels cleaner, and the sounds of nature are more prominent, enhancing the sense of tranquility. Reddit

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. Reddit

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