Kokuhei Shosha Ichinomiya (Tsugaru (modern designation))

Iwakiyama Shrine

岩木山神社

/ Iwakiyama Jinja

Admission
Free
Goshuin
300 JPY
Access
See details
Hours
Open daily

Overview

Iwakiyama Shrine sits at the base of Mount Iwaki, the tallest peak in Aomori Prefecture and a sacred mountain whose worship predates Japanese settlement in the region. The shrine serves as the spiritual heart of the Tsugaru region. The approach road is lined with ancient cryptomeria trees, and the Edo-period buildings including the main hall, worship hall, and tower gate are designated Important Cultural Properties. The shrine is considered the ichinomiya of the Tsugaru domain.

History

Founding

📜According to tradition
780 [宝亀11年]

Traditionally founded in 780 at the summit of Mount Iwaki. Mount Iwaki was sacred to the local Emishi people before the shrine was formally established. Many current buildings date from the Edo period, built in 1694 under Tsugaru clan patronage.

780📜According to tradition

Traditional founding at the summit of Mount Iwaki

1694📄Documented

Current shrine buildings constructed by Tsugaru clan

Enshrined Deities

primary Deity

God of nation-building, agriculture, medicine, and en-musubi (binding of fates/relationships)

Blessings

Shrine Network

Did You Know?

💡

Mount Iwaki is sometimes called 'Tsugaru Fuji' for its beautiful conical shape visible from Hirosaki.

Source: tradition

Practical Information

Location Coordinates

40.6350, 140.3070

Physical Address

27 Terasawa, Hyakuzawa, Hirosaki, Aomori

青森県弘前市百沢字寺沢27

Historical Province

Mutsu

Access

Hirosaki Station (JR Ou Line)

Hours

Open daily

Bus

40 min by bus from Hirosaki Station to Iwakiyama Jinja-mae

Best Times to Visit

summerautumn

Accessibility

Limited

Visitor information last verified: 2026-04-06. Please check the official website for the latest details.

Why This Shrine

The spiritual anchor of Aomori's Tsugaru region, with well-preserved Edo-period architecture set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Iwaki.

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Related Myths

Learn More About Shinto Shrines

Background reading for visitors and pilgrims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information provided by Jinja DB Editorial Team

What is Iwakiyama Shrine?

Iwakiyama Shrine sits at the base of Mount Iwaki, the tallest peak in Aomori Prefecture and a sacred mountain whose worship predates Japanese settlement in the region. The shrine serves as the spiritual heart of the Tsugaru region. The approach road is lined with ancient cryptomeria trees, and the Edo-period buildings including the main hall, worship hall, and tower gate are designated Important Cultural Properties. The shrine is considered the ichinomiya of the Tsugaru domain.

Where is Iwakiyama Shrine located?

Iwakiyama Shrine is located in Hirosaki, Aomori. The full address is: 27 Terasawa, Hyakuzawa, Hirosaki, Aomori.

What deities are enshrined at Iwakiyama Shrine?

The enshrined deities are: Okuninushi no Mikoto.