View the Four Sacred Iron Cauldrons Said to Be the Origin of Shiogama's Name
About this spot
A small shrine serving as a subsidiary shrine of Shiogama Shrine (塩竈神社), situated in the Honcho district, that conveys the origin of Shiogama's name to the present day. The four iron cauldrons enshrined as the sacred object are said to have been used when Shiodetsuchi no Okina (塩土老翁神) taught the people of this land the art of salt-making. According to tradition, the water in these cauldrons never dries up in sunshine nor overflows in heavy rain, and when misfortune befalls the world, the water changes color—a mysterious legend that has earned it a place as one of "Japan's Three Mysteries." The shrine continues to observe sacred salt-making rites using ancient mozuku seaweed salt-making methods, quietly telling the story of how this town's history has walked alongside "salt." Though small in grounds, this is a shrine not to be missed on a Shiogama stroll.
Tips
From the main approach of Shiogama Shrine, descend through the temple gate town; it is about a 5-minute walk along Honcho Street. To view the sacred cauldrons, speak to the shrine office staff and offer a voluntary donation (approximately 100 yen). The viewing itself takes a short time, so enjoy it together with a stroll through the traditional shops that remain along the temple gate street.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 30 minutes. After finishing your visit to Shiogama Shrine and descending through the temple gate town in the morning, this is a smooth timing to stop by.
Access & map
〒985-0052 Shiogama, Miyagi Prefecture, Honcho 6-1
Model course featuring this spot
Shiogama: A Harbor Stroll Through Shiogama Shrine and the Sushi Town
Miyagi
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