元城町東照宮
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Motoshiro Shrine

4.1
·854 reviews·Hamamatsu, Japan

A small but dignified shrine on the historic grounds of Hikima Castle, known as a power spot for career success and love.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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元城町東照宮

Motoshiro Shrine

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A small but dignified shrine on the historic grounds of Hikima Castle, known as a power spot for career success and love.

4.1
(854 reviews)

"It's a very small shrine, but it's very dignified and a great power spot."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the statues of Ieyasu and Hideyoshi, and the heart-shaped lantern for unique shots!

🚗 Park at Hamamatsu Castle

No dedicated parking at the shrine; use the nearby Hamamatsu Castle lot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Statues of Ieyasu and Hideyoshi

Statues of Ieyasu and Hideyoshi

Shrine Grounds

Capture unique photos with historical figures, a popular spot for visitors.

Reddit
Heart-Shaped Lantern

Heart-Shaped Lantern

Shrine Grounds

A charming detail offering a touch of romance and a unique photo opportunity.

Reddit
Historical Significance

Historical Significance

Site of Hikima Castle

Feel the weight of history at the former residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

Motoshiro Shrine is a small but powerful spot. Visiting early in the morning, before the main crowds arrive, offers a more serene experience. This allows you to truly soak in the historical atmosphere and capture photos without many people in the background. Reddit

Parking & Access Considerations

Motoshiro Shrine itself doesn't have dedicated parking or an office. The most convenient option is to use the parking lot for Hamamatsu Castle, which is nearby. This also allows for easy exploration of the castle grounds. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend tourist rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A magical fairytale like tourist spot in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Ken, Japan💖🇯🇵 📍 Nukumori-no-mori #japan #shizuoka #hamamatsu #fairytale #magical
@japanexplore
369 likes • 24.5K views

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the statues of Ieyasu and Hideyoshi, and the heart-shaped lantern for unique shots! Reddit

🚗 Park at Hamamatsu Castle

No dedicated parking at the shrine; use the nearby Hamamatsu Castle lot. Reddit

✨ Power Spot Vibes

Visit for good fortune, career advancement, and even love. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

Combine your visit with Hamamatsu Castle for a fuller experience. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Don't miss the statues of Ieyasu and Hideyoshi, and the heart-shaped lantern for unique shots! Reddit

🚗 Park at Hamamatsu Castle

No dedicated parking at the shrine; use the nearby Hamamatsu Castle lot. Reddit

✨ Power Spot Vibes

Visit for good fortune, career advancement, and even love. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Surroundings

Combine your visit with Hamamatsu Castle for a fuller experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(854 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Motoshiro Shrine to be a dignified and historically significant site, particularly noted for its connection to Tokugawa Ieyasu and its status as a power spot. The unique photo opportunities with historical statues and the heart-shaped lantern are frequently praised. However, some note its small size and lack of dedicated facilities.

"beautiful place"

Василий Иванов

"The other day, I visited Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is famous as the strongest power spot. Located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, this shrine and temple is known as the place where Tokugawa Ieyasu is enshrined, and its dignified construction is overwhelming. When I visited the shrine, I was captivated by the gorgeous decoration of the Yomeimon Gate. The gold leaf and colorful carvings show the craftsmanship of the Edo period. In particular, the carvings of the three monkeys "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" were impressive, symbolizing the lessons of life. The grounds are enveloped in silence, and just walking along the cedar-lined approach to the shrine seems to cleanse the soul. I felt that I was given special power by visiting the shrine building, where I could feel the dignity of Ieyasu and the weight of history. The surrounding nature is also beautiful, and it seems that you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. There are many tourists, but I visited early in the morning and was able to spend a relaxing time. As its reputation as a power spot suggests, it is a place where you can refresh both body and mind. I was convinced that it is a wonderful spot where history and spiritual energy are combined, and it is worth visiting at least once."

てらちゃん

"Motoshiromachi Toshogu Shrine was founded by former shogunate retainers on the site of Hikima Castle.

It enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu as its deity. Built on the site of Hikima Castle, Ieyasu's first residence, it's also popular as a shrine for praying for career advancement and a power spot, particularly said to bring good fortune and find love.
Statues of Tokugawa Ieyasu and a young Toyotomi Hideyoshi can be found within the shrine grounds, making it a great photo spot. However, the shrine does not have its own parking lot or office, so it's more convenient to use the parking lot at Hamamatsu Castle. There's also a heart-shaped lantern within the grounds."

TAKERU S

What People Like

Historical significance
Power spot for success
Unique photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Small size
No dedicated parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Motoshiro Shrine is located in Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. While the shrine itself doesn't have dedicated parking, the most convenient option is to use the parking lot for Hamamatsu Castle, which is in close proximity. From there, it's a short walk to the shrine. Reddit

Information on direct public transport to Motoshiro Shrine is limited. It's generally recommended to travel to Hamamatsu Station and then take a taxi or local bus towards Hamamatsu Castle, from where you can access the shrine. Reddit

From Hamamatsu Station, you can take a bus or taxi towards Hamamatsu Castle. The shrine is located on the grounds of the former Hikima Castle, near Hamamatsu Castle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Motoshiro Shrine is generally free to enter. As it's a historical site and a place of worship, there are no admission fees. Reddit

As a shrine located on historical grounds, it is typically accessible during daylight hours. There are no strict opening or closing times posted, but it's best to visit during reasonable hours. Reddit

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Motoshiro Shrine. It's a historical site open for exploration. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Motoshiro Shrine, you can see statues of Tokugawa Ieyasu and a young Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a heart-shaped lantern, and the historical grounds of Hikima Castle. It's known as a power spot for career advancement and good fortune. Reddit

Yes, Motoshiro Shrine offers unique photo opportunities, especially with the statues of historical figures and the charming heart-shaped lantern. The historical setting also makes for great shots. Reddit

Motoshiro Shrine is significant as it's built on the site of Hikima Castle, Tokugawa Ieyasu's first residence. It's considered a power spot for success and good fortune. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted at Motoshiro Shrine, especially for capturing the statues and the heart-shaped lantern. Be respectful of the shrine's nature as a place of worship. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Motoshiro Shrine itself doesn't have dining facilities, the area around Hamamatsu Castle and the city center offers various restaurants and cafes. You can find local cuisine and international options. Reddit

It's generally not recommended to eat directly within the shrine grounds to maintain respect for the sacred space. There are usually designated areas or you can find eateries nearby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The statues of Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi are prime photo spots, as is the unique heart-shaped lantern. The historical ruins of Hikima Castle also provide a picturesque backdrop. Reddit

Drone photography regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and be mindful of privacy and safety before flying a drone near historical or religious sites like Motoshiro Shrine. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Motoshiro Shrine is a small, easily navigable site that can be a quick and interesting stop for families. The statues of historical figures like Ieyasu and Hideyoshi can spark children's imagination about samurai and ancient Japan. The heart-shaped lantern might also be a fun detail for younger visitors to spot. Reddit

Since the shrine is located on the grounds of Hikima Castle ruins and near Hamamatsu Castle, families can easily combine this visit with exploring the castle itself, offering a more comprehensive historical outing. Remember that parking is best managed at Hamamatsu Castle, making it a convenient starting point for a family adventure. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Motoshiro Shrine offers a unique blend of historical elements and charming details. The statues of Tokugawa Ieyasu and Toyotomi Hideyoshi provide excellent opportunities for capturing striking portraits or historical reenactment-style shots. The heart-shaped lantern is another must-capture detail, offering a softer, more romantic subject. Reddit

The backdrop of the castle ruins adds a layer of texture and history to your photos. Visiting during the early morning hours can help you avoid crowds and capture the serene atmosphere, allowing for cleaner shots. Consider the lighting throughout the day to best highlight the textures of the stone ruins and the details of the statues. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History: The Legacy of Hikima Castle

Motoshiro Shrine holds a significant place in Japanese history as it stands on the former grounds of Hikima Castle. This castle was the first residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate. The shrine was later established by former shogunate retainers on this very site, enshrining Ieyasu as its deity. This connection to one of Japan's most pivotal historical figures imbues the shrine with a profound sense of historical importance and makes it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts. Reddit

Visiting Motoshiro Shrine offers a tangible link to the past, allowing visitors to walk on ground once trod by Ieyasu himself. The presence of statues depicting both Ieyasu and a young Toyotomi Hideyoshi further enhances the historical narrative, providing a visual representation of key figures from Japan's Sengoku period. The shrine's location on castle ruins adds an atmospheric layer, inviting contemplation of the events that shaped the nation. Reddit

Motoshiro Shrine as a Power Spot

Beyond its historical significance, Motoshiro Shrine is widely recognized as a power spot, drawing visitors seeking good fortune and spiritual energy. It is particularly popular for prayers related to career advancement and success in one's professional life. Many believe that the shrine's connection to Tokugawa Ieyasu, a figure who rose to immense power, bestows similar blessings upon those who visit with sincere intentions. Reddit

Adding to its allure, the shrine is also whispered to be a place for finding love and strengthening relationships. The presence of a charming heart-shaped lantern within the grounds further fuels this romantic association, making it a unique spot for couples or those hoping to find a partner. The combination of historical gravitas and spiritual belief creates a unique atmosphere that many find both inspiring and uplifting. TikTok

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