MieTravel

Sarutahiko Shrine

Flow of the course

Previous stop: Pay respects to Toyouke-no-Okami, guardian deity of food, clothing, and shelter. Walk slowly through the gravel approach with all three generations

About 30 min from the previous stop

About 40 min here

About 30 min to the next stop

Next stop: Cross the Uji Bridge, purify your hands in the Isuzu River, and approach the main sanctuary. Pay respects at the spiritual home of Japanese hearts

About this spot

This shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko-no-Okami, the deity of pathmaking who guides all things in fortunate directions, and is located on the route from the Outer Shrine to the Inner Shrine. It is considered auspicious to visit when starting something new or at life's turning points. Many families come to pray for their family's health, travel safety, and children's academic success. The octagonal 'directional stone marker' at the center of the grounds marks the site of the former deity hall, and visitors continuously touch the characters marking the zodiac signs and directions while making their wishes. The auxiliary shrine of Sarume Shrine is known as the deity of performing arts and matchmaking, and is equally popular. The compact grounds with minimal elevation change allow families with strollers and elderly visitors to pray comfortably.

Tips

From the front of the Outer Shrine, take the bus heading toward the Inner Shrine and get off at 'Sarutahiko Shrine-mae' stop. There is paid parking on the grounds. The visit itself takes 20–30 minutes; the directional stone can draw a line, so be prepared to wait. The bus between Ise Station and the Inner Shrine runs frequently, so you can drop by without worrying too much about the schedule.