NaganoLeisure

Takemizuwake Shrine

Flow of the course

Previous stop: One of Japan's Three Great Train Window Views: A Sweeping Panorama of the Rice Terraces and the Zenkoji Plain

About 30 min from the previous stop

About 45 min here

About 30 min to the next stop

Next stop: Stroll the Charming Streets of the Hot Spring Town, and Take a Break at a Foot Bath

About this spot

Enshrined in Yawata, Chikuma City, Takemizuwake Shrine is one of Shinano's foremost ancient shrines, recorded even in the Engishiki. The grounds, protected by an expansive sacred grove, are pleasantly shaded and wrapped in quiet air even at the height of summer. Long worshipped locally as a water deity guarding the blessings of the Chikuma River, it also has a deep connection to the very river where the fireworks display is held. The main hall and other structures on the grounds are designated as Nagano Prefecture cultural properties, letting visitors — from history buffs to small children — feel their dignity firsthand. Touching a little on this area's history before the night of fireworks adds depth to the journey.

Tips

Accessible via Togura Station on the Shinano Railway or the Chikuma Bus. If driving, there's parking near the grounds. Visiting the shrine is free. Because the sacred grove has many trees, using insect repellent is reassuring. It's about a 10-minute drive to the next stop, the Togura-Kamiyamada hot spring town.