Kanou Shrine (Nishi-Kanou Shrine) (叶神社（西叶神社）)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A shrine perched on a hill in Nishi-Uraga, notable for the intricately carved dragons and lion-dogs adorning its main hall. Since the Edo period, it has drawn the faith of the people of the port town of Uraga, and together with Higashi-Kanou Shrine (東叶神社) on the opposite shore, has been cherished as 'the Kanou Shrines of Uraga.' From the shrine grounds, reached by climbing a stone stairway, you can look down over the port town's rooftops. It's a fitting place to start the day, offering a glimpse into the history of Uraga Port, where fireworks will light up the sky tonight.

Tips

About a 15-minute walk from Uraga Station (浦賀駅) on the Keikyu Line. Admission is free. The carvings are found in the details of the shrine hall, so take your time looking closely. It's about a 5-minute walk to the next stop, the ferry landing.

Best time to visit

About 45 minutes. Early afternoon's quiet hours are perfect for a visit

Access & map

1-1-13 Nishi-Uraga, Yokosuka-shi, Kanagawa 239-0824