稲荷神社
1 / 10

Shinmei Shrine Toba

4.4
·3k reviews·Toba, Japan

A serene hilltop shrine in Toba, famed for its 300-year-old sacred tree and a wish-granting stone shrine.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Experience ultimate peace

CrowdLow
Loading map...
稲荷神社

Shinmei Shrine Toba

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Experience ultimate peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene hilltop shrine in Toba, famed for its 300-year-old sacred tree and a wish-granting stone shrine.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"Peaceful shrine with beautiful old sacred trees."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Transport Challenges

Public transport is sparse. Taxis or rental cars are recommended for easier access.

🤫 Respect the Quiet

This is a serene spot. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid loud disturbances.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sacred 300-Year-Old Tree

The Sacred 300-Year-Old Tree

Shrine grounds

A majestic, ancient tree stands as a silent guardian, radiating a powerful, serene energy.

The Wish-Granting Stone Shrine

The Wish-Granting Stone Shrine

Main shrine area

A unique stone shrine dedicated to a deity believed to grant a woman's deepest desires.

Kichizo-kun

Kichizo-kun

Shrine grounds

A rare, lucky charm said to bring good fortune to those who see it. A unique spiritual encounter.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Getting There Can Be Tricky

Accessing Shinmei Shrine requires some planning. Public transport options are limited, so consider a taxi or rental car for ease. The journey is worth it for the peaceful atmosphere.

Embrace the Tranquility

This is a small, quiet shrine, not a bustling tourist hub. Come prepared to soak in the serene ambiance and appreciate the ancient trees and spiritual energy.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Experience ultimate peace
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#行った方がいい神社
@uranai_d
62.8K likes • 2M views

🚗 Transport Challenges

Public transport is sparse. Taxis or rental cars are recommended for easier access. Reddit

🤫 Respect the Quiet

This is a serene spot. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid loud disturbances. Reddit

🍀 Seek Kichizo-kun

Look for Kichizo-kun, a rare charm said to bring good luck to those who spot it. TikTok

🌳 Admire the Ancient Trees

The centuries-old trees are a highlight. Take time to appreciate their grandeur and spiritual presence.

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Transport Challenges

Public transport is sparse. Taxis or rental cars are recommended for easier access. Reddit

🤫 Respect the Quiet

This is a serene spot. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid loud disturbances. Reddit

🍀 Seek Kichizo-kun

Look for Kichizo-kun, a rare charm said to bring good luck to those who spot it. TikTok

🌳 Admire the Ancient Trees

The centuries-old trees are a highlight. Take time to appreciate their grandeur and spiritual presence.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors describe Shinmei Shrine as a peaceful and serene hilltop location, particularly noted for its beautiful, ancient sacred trees and a unique stone shrine believed to grant wishes. While small and quiet, the journey to reach it can be challenging due to limited transport options.

"Peaceful shrine with beautiful old sacred trees"

Enrique Medina

"Nice temple. Well wooden deco"

Ho Dick

"Very small and quiet"

Mira Brown

What People Like

Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Majestic ancient trees
Unique wish-granting shrine

What People Dislike

Difficult transport access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Getting to Shinmei Shrine can be a bit challenging. Public transport is not very frequent, so many visitors opt for a taxi or a rental car. If you're relying on public transport, research bus routes in advance, as they can be infrequent. Reddit

While Toba is accessible by train, the shrine itself is not directly near a train station. You'll likely need to combine a train journey with a bus or taxi to reach the shrine. Consider the overall travel time when planning.

From Toba Station, taking a taxi is the most convenient option. Alternatively, you can check local bus schedules, but be prepared for potentially long waits between services. Reddit

Information on dedicated parking is limited. If you are driving, it's advisable to inquire locally upon arrival or look for designated parking areas in the vicinity of the shrine.

Walking to Shinmei Shrine is possible if you are staying very close by in the fishing village, but it's generally not recommended as a primary mode of transport from Toba city due to distance and potential lack of clear paths. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Shinmei Shrine is typically free to enter. As a place of worship, there is no admission fee, allowing visitors to experience its spiritual atmosphere without cost.

Shrines in Japan are generally open from sunrise to sunset. While there are no strict official hours, it's best to visit during daylight to fully appreciate the grounds and the ancient trees.

You can visit Shinmei Shrine during daylight hours. It's a peaceful place, so visiting when it's less crowded will enhance the serene experience.

No, advance booking is not required for Shinmei Shrine. It's a public shrine, and visitors are welcome to come and go freely during daylight hours.

Information on specific events is not widely publicized online. For details on any potential ceremonies or festivals, it's best to inquire locally or check any posted notices at the shrine itself.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Shinmei Shrine, you can admire the impressive 300-year-old sacred tree, the unique stone shrine dedicated to a deity said to grant women's wishes, and the tranquil atmosphere of this small, quiet shrine. TikTok

Yes, Shinmei Shrine offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the ancient tree and the rustic charm of the stone shrine. The surrounding fishing village also provides picturesque scenes. Instagram

Kichizo-kun is a special charm or figure at Shinmei Shrine, considered a sign of good luck. Seeing it is believed to bring fortune to the viewer. TikTok

A visit to Shinmei Shrine is typically short, often around 30 minutes to an hour, due to its small size. It's a place to quietly appreciate the nature and spiritual elements. Reddit

The atmosphere at Shinmei Shrine is very peaceful and serene. It's a quiet, small shrine located in a charming fishing village, offering a tranquil escape. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spot is the magnificent 300-year-old sacred tree. The stone shrine itself, with its rustic charm, also makes for compelling shots. Don't forget to capture the serene ambiance of the shrine grounds. Instagram

Photography is generally allowed at Shinmei Shrine for personal use. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are worshippers present.

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, can offer beautiful lighting for photographs, highlighting the ancient trees and the shrine's atmosphere. Early mornings also provide a peaceful, soft light.

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites in Japan to ensure the peace and privacy of visitors and worshippers. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Given the natural beauty, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of the tree, while a prime lens can be good for detail shots of the shrine.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shinmei Shrine is a small, quiet location, making it suitable for families who appreciate a peaceful outing. The ancient, towering tree is likely to capture children's imaginations, offering a natural wonder to explore. TikTok While there aren't specific play areas, the serene environment allows for a calm experience. The unique aspect of Kichizo-kun, a charm said to bring good luck, could be a fun element to point out to children, turning the visit into a mini treasure hunt for good fortune. TikTok

Keep in mind that transportation can be a challenge, so consider a taxi for easier access with younger children. Reddit The shrine's tranquility means it's best for families who can maintain a quieter demeanor. It's a place to appreciate nature and a bit of local folklore together, rather than a destination with extensive child-centric activities.

🧘 Solo Travelers Seeking Peace

For solo travelers looking for a moment of quiet reflection, Shinmei Shrine is an ideal destination. Its small size and tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for introspection and enjoying a moment of solitude. Reddit The presence of the 300-year-old sacred tree offers a powerful connection to nature and history, providing a grounding experience. Reddit

The unique belief that the stone shrine grants a woman's wish adds a layer of personal contemplation. TikTok Solo visitors can take their time to absorb the spiritual energy of the place without the distractions of crowds. The challenge of reaching the shrine via limited public transport might even appeal to the independent traveler, adding a sense of accomplishment to the journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mystical Kichizo-kun

Shinmei Shrine is home to a unique spiritual element known as Kichizo-kun. This is not just any charm; it's described as a rare sight, with only about one in 90,000 people having the chance to see it. TikTok The belief surrounding Kichizo-kun is that its appearance signals a coming period of good fortune, even for those who might not be actively seeking it. TikTok It's considered a powerful omen, guiding one's life towards positivity and prosperity. TikTok The mention of 'the ice cream of the beginning of the miracle' in relation to Kichizo-kun suggests a playful, yet deeply hopeful, connection to good things to come. TikTok

For visitors, seeking out Kichizo-kun adds an element of delightful anticipation to their visit. It transforms a simple shrine visit into a quest for a personal blessing. The idea that seeing this charm can 'make your life good' and 'lead with nature' speaks to a holistic approach to well-being, where spiritual encounters are intertwined with natural blessings. TikTok It's a reminder that sometimes, the most profound experiences come in unexpected and subtle forms, offering a unique spiritual takeaway from Shinmei Shrine. TikTok

Navigating Transportation to Shinmei Shrine

Reaching Shinmei Shrine requires a bit of foresight, as public transportation options are limited and can be infrequent. Many visitors find that taxis are the most convenient way to get to the shrine, especially from Toba Station. Reddit This offers a direct and hassle-free journey, allowing you to maximize your time at the destination. If you prefer to drive yourself, renting a car is another viable option, providing flexibility and the ability to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Reddit

For those committed to using public transport, it's crucial to research bus schedules thoroughly in advance. Buses may not run very often, and understanding their timetable is key to avoiding long waits. Reddit Some travelers have noted that the shrine is located in a 'cute fisherman village,' suggesting that while it might be a bit off the beaten path, the journey itself can be part of the charm, offering glimpses into local life. Reddit Planning your route and understanding the transport limitations beforehand will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable visit to this serene hilltop shrine.

You may also like