About Futaarasan shrine

Futaarayama Shrine is an ancient shrine located in Nikko City, Tochigi Prefecture, and is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Japan. It was founded in 767 and impresses visitors with its long history and deep religious background. The shrine, together with Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Rinno-ji Temple, is known as 'Ni-sha-ichiji' and is part of the World Heritage Site 'Shrines and Temples of Nikko'.

The most striking feature of Futaarasan Shrine is the harmony between its magnificent architecture and nature. The precincts of the shrine include the main hall and the hall of worship, both of which are designated important cultural assets, and their beautiful carvings and decorations are well worth a visit. The Shinkyo Bridge, the centre of the Nikko mountain worship, is a particularly popular destination for many tourists as the gateway to Nikko. The bridge is considered sacred as part of the front path to Futaarasan Shrine, and its beautiful arched structure makes it a popular photo spot.

Another highlight is the natural environment of the shrine grounds. The Futaarasan Shrine has extensive grounds and rich forests, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons. The scenery is different every time you visit: cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn leaves in autumn and snowy landscapes in winter. In particular, the precincts of the shrine are enveloped in vivid colours during the autumn leaf season, attracting many tourists.

Futaarayama Shrine is also said to bring various benefits such as good health, match-making and prosperous business. In particular, the married couple cedars and the marriage pine tree, known as the god of marriage, are popular spots for worshippers seeking romantic fulfilment and a good marriage. Praying at these places is said to improve one's luck in love and marriage.

Furthermore, many festivals and events are held at Futaarasan Shrine throughout the year. For example, at the Nikko Futaarasan Shrine Grand Festival, ancient rituals and kagura dances are dedicated, allowing visitors to experience local traditional culture. Many seasonal events, such as Hatsumode and Shichi-Go-San, also attract a large number of worshippers.

The Futaarasan Shrine is an attractive tourist destination for its beautiful architecture, rich natural environment and diverse benefits. Visitors can feel the harmony of Japanese tradition and nature and refresh their body and soul. When visiting Tochigi, be sure to visit Futaarayama Shrine and enjoy its charms.