Tamatushima Shrine (玉津島神社)

Flow of the course

About this spot

An ancient shrine dedicated to the deity of Japanese poetry, counted among the 'Three Poetry Deities.' It stands as the spiritual center of Wakura. In 724 (Year 1 of the Jinki era), Emperor Shomu made a pilgrimage to this site, and the Man'yoshu poet Yamabe Akahito, who accompanied him, composed the renowned verse: 'As the tide fills Wakanoura's shore, the shallows become a lagoon, and cranes call out across the reed banks.' This is truly the sacred ground of Japanese poetry. Scattered throughout the shrine grounds are stone monuments bearing Man'yoshu verses. If you climb the small hill called Tenguyama (奠供山) behind the shrine, you can see the tidal flats and inlets of Wakura that the poets once beheld from their boats. The scenery woven together by the shrine's vermillion buildings, green pines, and tranquil waters has been celebrated in verse for over a thousand years. As you trace the poetry monuments one by one, you can spend a quiet moment lost in thoughts of the Man'yoshu era.

Tips

From JR Wakayama Station or Nankai Wakayama-shijo Station, take the Wakayama Bus heading toward Shin-Wakanoura and get off at 'Tamatushima-jinja-mae.' Parking is available in front of the shrine grounds. After your visit, be sure to climb Tenguyama behind the shrine. A light 5-minute mountain path offers a panoramic view of Wakura, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you wish to receive a stamp, check the shrine office's reception hours in advance for peace of mind.

Best time to visit

About 40 minutes. The shrine grounds in early morning are enveloped in a solemn atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy your prayers and the inlet scenery in peaceful tranquility.

Access & map

〒641-0025 Wakayama Prefecture, Wakayama City, Wakaura Naka 3-chome 4-26 Tamatushima Shrine