MiyazakiTravel

An Ancient Shrine Enshrining Konohanasakuya-hime: Blessings for Matchmaking and Safe Childbirth

About this spot

An ancient shrine located in the Saito city center that enshrines Konohanasakuya-hime, the heroine of Hyuga mythology. Set in Saito, the setting of her love story with Ninigi-no-Mikoto, the heavenly grandson, this shrine has long been beloved for its blessings of matchmaking, safe childbirth, and child-rearing. Within the shrine grounds, a magnificent sacred old kusunoki tree spreads its branches, its overwhelming presence testifying to the shrine's deep history. A legend persists that Konohanasakuya-hime brewed sweet sake for child-rearing, showing how the mythological world still breathes in people's daily lives. Visiting after exploring the kofun plateau ties together the narrative of ancient Hyuga.

Tips

Just a short drive from the Saito plateau, with parking available on the shrine grounds. If you wish to receive an ema (prayer tablet) or a shrine stamp, bring your stamp book. The shrine sits in a quiet residential area, perfect for peaceful prayer. The sacred kusunoki tree reveals different expressions depending on your angle of view—be sure to gaze at it from root to crown.