Iwaya Shrine, located in Toho Village, Fukuoka Prefecture, is a mysterious shrine that stands in the midst of great nature. It is full of highlights, such as the “Gongen Iwa” (Gongen Rock), which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, and the “Hoju Stone,” which is said to grant wishes.
Highlights of Iwaya Shrine
- Overwhelming Gongen Rock: The main hall, which enshrines the Hoju Stone, the enshrined deity, is built in a hollow of a giant, steep rock called the “Gongen Rock.” The back and left side are characterized by a unique architectural style that is different from any other, with exposed rock faces.
- Mysterious Hoju Stone: A shining stone called the “Hoju Stone,” said to have fallen from the sky during the reign of Emperor Kinmei. It was named “Hoju,” which means a “jewel that grants any wish,” and is enshrined as the enshrined deity. There is a legend that says that if you look at it your eyes will go blind, and it is a mysterious stone that no one has ever seen.
- Connection with Hiko-san Shugendo: Iwaya Shrine has a deep connection with Hiko-san Shugendo, a mountain worship. In the surrounding area, there are sites of ascetic practices of Shugendo and stone Buddhas, creating a mysterious atmosphere.
History of Iwaya Shrine
The founding of Iwaya Shrine is said to date back to 547, during the reign of Emperor Kinmei. In 1698, Tadanaga Kuroda, the fourth lord of the Fukuoka Domain, built the current shrine buildings. In 1988, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property as a valuable building related to Hiko-san Shugendo.
Basic Information about Iwaya Shrine
| Item | Content |
| Name | Iwaya Shrine |
| Address | Take, Hoshuyama, Oaza, Toho Village, Asakura District, Fukuoka Prefecture 838-1701 |
| Phone Number | 0946-72-2313 (Toho Village Office, Agriculture, Forestry and Tourism Division) |
| Business Hours | Free to visit |
| Parking | 10 spaces |
| Access | About 5 minutes by car from JR Hitahikosan Line Chikuzen-Iwaya Station (along Prefectural Road 52) About a 17-minute walk from JR Hitahikosan Line Chikuzen-Iwaya Station |
Nearby Information
- Mount Hoshuyama: A mountain with an altitude of 829m. From the summit, you can have a panoramic view of the magnificent scenery.
- Toho Village History and Folklore Museum: You can learn about the history and culture of Toho Village.
- Roadside Station Koishiwara: You can purchase local specialties and fresh vegetables.
Conclusion
Iwaya Shrine is a shrine full of highlights, such as the Gongen Rock, which is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, and the Hoju Stone, which is said to grant wishes. When you visit the nature-rich Toho Village, please come and feel the mysterious power at Iwaya Shrine.