猿田彦神社
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Sarutahiko Shrine Ise Japan

4.4
·9k reviews·Ise, Japan

A spiritual haven dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, the god of guidance, known for its lucky octagonal pillar and artistic flair.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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猿田彦神社

Sarutahiko Shrine Ise Japan

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A spiritual haven dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, the god of guidance, known for its lucky octagonal pillar and artistic flair.

4.4
(9k reviews)

"A popular shrine for artists and those seeking guidance, with a unique charm and spiritual energy."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Guidance

Seek blessings for navigation and life's journey. Many find it a powerful spot for personal direction. :pray:

✨ Discover the Stickers!

Check out the unique and fun stickers at the hand-washing station – a quirky highlight for artists! :iphone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Octagonal Stone Pillar

The Octagonal Stone Pillar

Main shrine grounds

A unique octagonal stone pillar believed to bring luck and guidance to those who touch it. A must-see for a touch of spiritual connection.

Artistic & Performing Arts Blessing

Artistic & Performing Arts Blessing

Dedicated section of the shrine

A special area for artists and performers seeking blessings for their craft. Look for the unique stickers in the hand-washing area!

Oharai Town Approach

Oharai Town Approach

Street leading to Ise Grand Shrine

A charming cobblestone street lined with shops and restaurants, perfect for a stroll after visiting the shrine.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

Sarutahiko Shrine is a popular spot, especially for locals attending ceremonies. To experience its spiritual ambiance with fewer crowds, consider visiting on weekdays outside of major Japanese holidays. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer a more peaceful visit.

Connecting with the Deity of Guidance

Sarutahiko Okami is revered as the god of guidance and navigation. Many visitors come seeking blessings for safe travels, career paths, or life decisions. Embrace the opportunity to connect with this powerful deity for personal direction.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, serene ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

【吉田神社】貴重な例祭「倭舞(和舞)」の映像⛩神々から特別な許可を得た人だけに表示されています✨ This is a dance performed at Ise Jingu Shrine. This is a valuable video of the dedication of the dance to the gods.dancing in shrine japan. #金運 #開運 #金運アップ #吉田神社 #スピリチュアル #shrine #japan
@_ten_shin
12.8K likes • 102K views

🎯 Embrace the Guidance

Seek blessings for navigation and life's journey. Many find it a powerful spot for personal direction. :pray:

✨ Discover the Stickers!

Check out the unique and fun stickers at the hand-washing station – a quirky highlight for artists! :iphone:

Beautiful Japan🇯🇵 📍Sarutahiko shrine/猿田彦神社⛩️ in Mie prefecture😊 #mieprefecture #japantravel #japantrip #shrine #japaneseshrine #ise #isejingu #japaneseculture #japanesetraditional #japanphotography #japanshrine #jinja #tourguide #jepun #ญี่ปุ่น #japão #japón #japon #jepang #japan #여행스타그램 #giappone #三重 #おかげ横丁 #伊勢 #神社巡り #三重観光 #伊勢神宮 #伊勢志摩 #猿田彦神社
japantour.guide.jp
9.6K likes • 160.9K views
Futami Okitama-jinja Shrine⛩️ A Shinto shrine famous for the Meoto Iwa (“Married Couple Rocks”) situated 700 meters off the coast. The shrine is dedicated to the god Sarutahiko Okami. The offshore Meoto Iwa are sacred rocks affiliated with Sarutahiko Okami. The rocks serve as a torii gate for those worshiping the sun. Because of their resemblance to a married couple cuddling close, the Meoto Iwa a...
yota2991
0 likes • 382 views

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Oharai Town

Enjoy the charming street leading to Ise Grand Shrine, filled with shops and eateries. :shopping_bags:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, especially if visiting Ise Grand Shrine too. :athletic_shoe:

"Cinematic Iseshima" \\三重の魅力ある風景をシネマティックに// . other contents @miemovie28 . 📍Location ・Sarutahiko Shrine(Ise-city, mie-Pref. in Japan🇯🇵) ・猿田彦神社(伊勢市) . 📸Camera ・Sony ZV-E1 ・FE 24-105mmF4 OSS ・DJI RS4 . #cinematicfilms #tripjapan #beautifuljapan
miemovie28
93 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Guidance

Seek blessings for navigation and life's journey. Many find it a powerful spot for personal direction. :pray:

✨ Discover the Stickers!

Check out the unique and fun stickers at the hand-washing station – a quirky highlight for artists! :iphone:

🚶‍♀️ Stroll Oharai Town

Enjoy the charming street leading to Ise Grand Shrine, filled with shops and eateries. :shopping_bags:

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking, especially if visiting Ise Grand Shrine too. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sarutahiko Shrine is appreciated for its spiritual significance, particularly its connection to guidance and blessings for artists. Visitors enjoy the unique octagonal stone pillar and the vibrant, sticker-adorned hand-washing stations. While some find it a bit understated compared to larger shrines, its charm lies in its specific appeal and its location along the route to Ise Grand Shrine.

"Visited on a weekday, so it was pretty quiet – just a handful of people. Parking's at the back, and it's free for under 30 minutes. The shrine itself was stunning – really beautiful."

K K

"Visited Sarutahiko Shrine in Ise ⛩️✨
Known as the “God of Guidance,” this sacred spot is perfect for those starting something new — a new journey, career, or relationship 🙏
The peaceful grounds feature the iconic octagonal “Direction Stone” and the nearby Saru-me Shrine, dedicated to arts and love 💕
Located close to the Ise Grand Shrine, it’s a serene stop to refresh your mind and spirit 🌿"

KIICHIRO KOBORI

"Amazing shrine for the artists. Very popular in Japan. I loved the various funky stickers in the hand washing area, so punk"

Mu S

What People Like

Spiritual guidance
Artist blessings
Unique stickers

What People Dislike

Can be bland
Less grand than Ise Jingu

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Osaka-Namba, take a train to Ise-shi Station, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Sarutahiko Shrine. The journey typically takes around 2-3 hours. Reddit

Sarutahiko Shrine is located in Ise City, Mie Prefecture, and is a short distance from the Ise Jingu Naiku (Inner Shrine) complex, though in a different physical location. It's often visited in conjunction with Ise Jingu. InstagramReddit

You can walk between the Outer Shrine of Ise Jingu and Sarutahiko Shrine, or take a short bus ride. The approach to Sarutahiko Shrine is via the charming Oharai Town. Instagram

While specific parking details can vary, there are usually parking options available in the vicinity of Sarutahiko Shrine and the nearby Oharai Town, especially for those visiting Ise Jingu as well.

Yes, Sarutahiko Shrine is an excellent stop for a day trip to Ise, often combined with a visit to Ise Jingu. Plan your itinerary to include travel time. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Sarutahiko Shrine is generally free to enter, allowing visitors to explore its grounds and main worship areas without a ticket. Instagram

Shrine hours can vary, but Sarutahiko Shrine is typically open during daylight hours, allowing ample time for visits. It's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.

Yes, Sarutahiko Shrine is a popular venue for local blessing ceremonies, including weddings. While you might not be able to participate directly, witnessing these events can be a unique cultural experience. Reddit

No special tickets or passes are generally required for entry to Sarutahiko Shrine itself. However, if you plan to visit other attractions in the area, like Ise Jingu, check their specific admission policies.

Donations are welcomed at most Shinto shrines, including Sarutahiko Shrine. You can typically find donation boxes or specific areas for offering contributions.

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Sarutahiko Shrine is renowned for its connection to Sarutahiko Okami, the deity of guidance and navigation. It's also known for its unique octagonal stone pillar and its appeal to artists and performers. TikTokReddit

Touch the octagonal stone pillar for luck, observe the unique stickers at the hand-washing area, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere. Consider it a stop on your way to or from Ise Jingu. Reddit

Yes, Sarutahiko Shrine offers picturesque scenes, especially the approach through Oharai Town and the shrine's traditional architecture. The octagonal pillar also makes for interesting shots. Instagram+1

The octagonal stone pillar is believed to bring good luck and guidance to those who touch it. It's a focal point for many visitors seeking blessings. TikTok

A notable feature is the collection of diverse and artistic stickers found at the shrine's hand-washing station, which has become a quirky point of interest, especially for artists. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the charming Oharai Town, which leads to Sarutahiko Shrine, is lined with numerous restaurants and eateries offering local Ise specialties and other Japanese cuisine. Instagram

You can find a variety of local dishes, including Ise ebi (spiny lobster), miso-based stews, and traditional Japanese sweets. It's a great place to sample regional flavors. Instagram

No, dining is not permitted within the shrine grounds themselves. However, there are plenty of dining options available in the surrounding Oharai Town. Instagram

While traditional Japanese cuisine often features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Oharai Town may offer vegetarian options like vegetable tempura or udon. It's advisable to inquire directly with the restaurant.

Oharai Town offers various snack stalls and street food vendors selling local treats, perfect for a quick bite while exploring. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the octagonal stone pillar, the traditional shrine architecture, and the vibrant atmosphere of Oharai Town. The approach to the shrine offers scenic views. Instagram+1

Photography is generally permitted in most outdoor areas of Sarutahiko Shrine, but always be respectful and check for any signs indicating restricted areas, especially near sacred objects or during ceremonies. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the shrine and its surroundings. Instagram+1

The unique stickers at the hand-washing station are a popular and quirky photo opportunity, reflecting the shrine's connection to artists and performers. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at religious sites like shrines to ensure peace and respect. It's best to avoid using drones to prevent any issues.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sarutahiko Shrine offers a relatively calm and accessible experience for families. While the main focus is spiritual, the charming Oharai Town nearby provides a more engaging environment for children with its shops and snacks. The octagonal stone pillar can be a fun point of interaction, allowing kids to participate in the tradition of touching it for luck. TikTok

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. The shrine grounds are generally safe for walking, and the overall atmosphere is peaceful. It's a good stop to introduce children to Japanese Shinto culture in a less intense setting than some larger shrines. Remember to keep an eye on them, especially in busier areas.

🎨 Artists and Creatives

For artists, musicians, dancers, and performers, Sarutahiko Shrine is a pilgrimage destination. The deity Sarutahiko Okami is believed to bless creative endeavors, inspiration, and success in the arts. Many visitors come specifically to seek these blessings. TikTokReddit

Don't miss the quirky and vibrant stickers found at the hand-washing stations – a testament to the shrine's artistic community. It's a unique photo opportunity and a visual representation of the shrine's connection to the creative world. Consider leaving a sticker of your own to add to the collection!

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Pilgrims

Sarutahiko Shrine is an excellent stop for solo travelers seeking spiritual guidance and a sense of direction. The deity is known for assisting with navigation, both literal and metaphorical, making it a fitting destination for those on a personal journey. Reddit

The shrine's serene atmosphere, especially during quieter times, allows for personal reflection and connection. The proximity to Ise Jingu also makes it a convenient and meaningful addition to a spiritual itinerary. Embrace the opportunity to touch the octagonal pillar and absorb the peaceful energy of the site.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Sarutahiko Okami

Sarutahiko Okami is a central figure in Japanese mythology, often depicted as a powerful deity associated with guidance, navigation, and earthly power. He is known for his role in guiding the legendary Emperor Jimmu on his eastward expedition, making him a patron deity for travelers, explorers, and anyone seeking direction in life. His association with earthly matters also makes him a deity invoked for success in various endeavors. TikTokReddit

Many visitors come to Sarutahiko Shrine seeking blessings for safe journeys, career advancements, and clarity in decision-making. The shrine's atmosphere is often described as one of spiritual support and empowerment, reflecting the nature of the deity enshrined. The unique octagonal stone pillar is a tangible representation of this divine guidance, believed to bestow luck upon those who touch it. TikTok

The shrine's appeal extends beyond spiritual seekers; it's also a popular spot for artists and performers, who believe Sarutahiko Okami can bless their creative endeavors. This unique connection is sometimes evidenced by the eclectic collection of stickers found at the shrine's purification fountains, adding a modern, artistic flair to the traditional sacred space. Reddit

Exploring Oharai Town and Its Charm

Adjacent to Sarutahiko Shrine lies Oharai Town, a beautifully preserved street that serves as a gateway to the Ise Grand Shrine. This historic thoroughfare is characterized by its traditional wooden merchant houses, souvenir shops, and inviting restaurants, creating a picturesque and lively atmosphere. It's a perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and find unique mementos of your visit. Instagram

As you stroll through Oharai Town, you'll find a wide array of local delicacies and crafts. From Ise ebi (spiny lobster) to regional sweets and artisanal goods, there are plenty of opportunities to savor the flavors and find treasures to take home. The street itself is a visual delight, with its cobblestone paths and charming architecture, making it a photographer's dream. Instagram

Oharai Town is not just a shopping and dining destination; it's an integral part of the pilgrimage experience to Ise. It offers a chance to slow down, enjoy the ambiance, and connect with the spirit of Ise before or after visiting the sacred grounds of the shrines. The blend of tradition and commerce makes it a vibrant and memorable part of any trip to the area. Instagram

The Artistic Connection at Sarutahiko Shrine

Sarutahiko Shrine holds a special significance for artists, performers, and creatives. It is believed that Sarutahiko Okami, the deity of guidance, also blesses those who pursue artistic endeavors, helping them find inspiration and success in their craft. This connection has led to a unique cultural expression at the shrine. TikTokReddit

A particularly noteworthy and quirky aspect of this connection is the collection of stickers adorning the hand-washing stations. Visitors, especially artists, often leave behind stickers from their travels, performances, or artistic affiliations. This creates a vibrant, ever-changing collage that reflects the shrine's diverse community of patrons and adds a modern, punk-rock edge to the traditional setting. Reddit

This artistic patronage transforms Sarutahiko Shrine into more than just a place of worship; it becomes a hub for creative energy and a testament to the intersection of tradition and contemporary culture. For visitors interested in the arts, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the sticker-covered fountains are a must-see and a fantastic photo opportunity. Reddit

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