三ツ石神社
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Mitsuishi Shrine

4
·522 reviews·Morioka, Japan

Mitsuishi Shrine: Home to three sacred stones bearing a demon's legendary handprints, a unique spot steeped in local folklore.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

To clearly see the stones

CrowdLow
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三ツ石神社

Mitsuishi Shrine

Best Time

Daytime

To clearly see the stones

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Mitsuishi Shrine: Home to three sacred stones bearing a demon's legendary handprints, a unique spot steeped in local folklore.

4
(522 reviews)

"A sacred site in Morioka, Iwate — famous for the 'demon's handprints' legend said to be sealed in stone. Powerful and mysterious!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🔍 Seek the Handprints

Look closely at the large stones for the legendary demon's handprints – a fascinating detail! :mag_right:

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk from City

Conveniently located and walkable from central Morioka, making it a great addition to your city tour. :walking:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Three Sacred Stones

The Three Sacred Stones

Main shrine grounds

Three massive boulders, said to bear the handprints of a bound demon. A truly unique sight!

Demon's Handprint Legend

Demon's Handprint Legend

Informational signs at the shrine

Discover the captivating folklore of a demon's pact, sealed with a handprint on stone.

Mitsuishi Shrine Itself

Mitsuishi Shrine Itself

Main shrine area

A small, serene shrine offering a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into local spiritual practices.

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Unraveling the Demon's Handprint Legend

Mitsuishi Shrine is famed for its legend of a demon's handprints sealed in three large stones. Visitors often seek out these unique geological formations, which are central to the shrine's lore and the region's history. Understanding this story enhances the mystical experience.

A Quick Stop in Morioka

This shrine is a compact and charming site, perfect for a brief visit. Many travelers find it a delightful addition to their exploration of Morioka, often combined with nearby parks and other spiritual sites. It's an easy walk from many central locations.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
To clearly see the stones
Crowd
Low
When
Anytime
Why
Quick and easy to visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

ミツ石神社 Mitsuishi Jinja - According to the legend, a demon called Rasetsu used to live in this district a long time ago. He terrorized the villagers and the travelers. The people prayed the local god of Mitsuishi Shrine to get rid of Rasetsu from the village. The god was able to defeat Rasetsu and bound him to the three rocks; making him swear not to terrorize the villagers. Before the local god ...
shokkun_hi
41 likes • 289 views

🔍 Seek the Handprints

Look closely at the large stones for the legendary demon's handprints – a fascinating detail! :mag_right: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk from City

Conveniently located and walkable from central Morioka, making it a great addition to your city tour. :walking: Reddit

The other day, the famous Miss Sansa (the official Sansa promotion team!) and the Sansa ensemble paid respect to the gods by dancing and performing at the home of Sansa, Mitsuishi Shrine⛩ Performed at the end of July🗓, this offering dance is done to pray for the health and success of all who participate in the festival🎆 Do come on August 1-4 to see them✨, and others, perform right at the heart o...
iwatelifeinjapan
83 likes • 1.2K views
Saw some rocks that some demons touched 👹🗿✨ . Couldn’t find the 3rd boulder so perhaps it fell back into the spirit realm . . . #DemonStone #DemonRock #Demon #Devil #Japanesefolklore #Oni #SpiritRealm #Yokai #Boulder #Rock #Stone #Curse #Japan #MitsuishiShrine #Morioka #Iwate #japantravel #traveltojapan #鬼 #石 #盛岡市 #岩手県 #妖怪 #赤鬼 #青鬼 #鬼の手 #鬼の手形 #神社 #⛩️ #三ツ石神社
jasmineoftherose
0 likes • 876 views

⏱️ Short Visit Recommended

This is a small shrine; plan for about 10-15 minutes to explore and read the signs. :stopwatch: Reddit

📜 Read the Lore

Take a moment to read the signs explaining the shrine's fascinating demon folklore. :scroll: Reddit

📍Tadami, Fukushima, Japan #tadami #fukushima #japan #mitsuishishrine #hasshoshrine #hachijurigoe #rokujurigoe #🇯🇵 #⛩️ #只見町 #只見町観光まちづくり協会
ken_kensei_kochi
24 likes • 662 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🔍 Seek the Handprints

Look closely at the large stones for the legendary demon's handprints – a fascinating detail! :mag_right: Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walk from City

Conveniently located and walkable from central Morioka, making it a great addition to your city tour. :walking: Reddit

⏱️ Short Visit Recommended

This is a small shrine; plan for about 10-15 minutes to explore and read the signs. :stopwatch: Reddit

📜 Read the Lore

Take a moment to read the signs explaining the shrine's fascinating demon folklore. :scroll: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(522 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mitsuishi Shrine is a charming and unique spot in Morioka, celebrated for its captivating legend of a demon's handprints sealed in three ancient stones. Visitors appreciate its easy accessibility and the mystical aura surrounding the site, though some note its small size means a brief visit is sufficient.

"A sacred site in Morioka, Iwate — famous for the “demon’s handprints” legend said to be sealed in stone. Powerful and mysterious! 👹✨"

Sazzadur Rahman

"While walking around morioka city we came across this place; 3 huge rocks which is believed that their is hand prints of demon on the rocks
The shrine is small; it’s a cute place to visit not far from iwate park
Just come if you are around the area

The story of the shrine:

"Mitsuishi" means "three stones", so the name of the shrine is derived from the three big rocks.

Long, long ago, when Mount Iwate volcano to the northwest of Morioka erupted, three big rocks were shot out from the volcano.
The people in this area believed that the Gods lived in the rocks as "God Mitsuishi".

On one occasion, a demon appeared and bullied the people.
So, the people asked God Mitsuishi for help.

The God fought off the demon and tied him to the big rocks of the God.
The demon promised never to do that again, and the God made him seal his hand print on the rock as a certificate.
Then the demon returned back to far mountain..."

Eattillyoudrop foodie

"If you want to know how the prefecture Iwate (rock 🪨 hand ✋) got its name this is the spot. See the 3 huge bolders and the demons handprint"

Ivon Robson

What People Like

Unique demon legend
Mysterious handprints
Easy to access

What People Dislike

Small shrine size

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mitsuishi Shrine is easily accessible by foot from central Morioka. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk, especially when exploring other nearby attractions like Iwate Park. If you're arriving by taxi, you can simply ask for 'Mitsuishi Shrine' (Mitsuishi Jinja). Reddit

While the shrine itself is small, there is ample parking available in nearby lots or at adjacent shrines. This makes it convenient for those traveling by car. Reddit

Yes, Morioka has a good public transport system. You can take a bus to a stop near Iwate Park or the city center and then enjoy a short walk to the shrine. Check local bus routes for the most convenient option. Reddit

Mitsuishi Shrine is situated in Morioka city, often visited alongside other local landmarks and parks. It's a charming spot that complements a broader exploration of the area. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy walking to the shrine from Morioka's city center, taking in the local atmosphere. For a unique experience, you could even try the 'Omakase' taxi approach if you're feeling adventurous! Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit Mitsuishi Shrine. It is a public site, and you can explore the grounds and see the sacred stones freely. Reddit

Mitsuishi Shrine is generally open to visitors during daylight hours. As it's an outdoor site focused on the stones and the shrine structure, there are no strict closing times, but it's best to visit when it's light out. Reddit

The shrine can be visited year-round. However, visiting during the day ensures you can clearly see the 'demon's handprints' on the stones. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted at Mitsuishi Shrine. It's a great spot to capture the unique stones and the shrine's atmosphere. Instagram

There isn't a formal visitor center. However, informational signs are usually posted around the shrine, explaining the history and legends associated with the site. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The primary attraction is the legend of the 'demon's handprints' said to be imprinted on three large, ancient stones. These stones are the namesake of the shrine ('Mitsuishi' means 'three stones'). InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend around 10 to 15 minutes at Mitsuishi Shrine. It's a compact site, perfect for a quick stop to appreciate the folklore and the unique stones. Reddit

Restroom facilities are not typically available directly at the shrine itself. It's advisable to use facilities in nearby parks or public areas before or after your visit. Reddit

The three stones are believed to be where a demon was bound by a god, forced to leave his handprint as a promise never to terrorize people again. This legend is central to the shrine's identity. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Mitsuishi Shrine is ideal for a brief visit, making it a perfect addition to a day exploring Morioka. Its unique story and visual appeal offer a memorable experience in a short time. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo opportunity is capturing the three large stones, especially if you can find the legendary 'demon's handprints.' The shrine itself also offers a peaceful, picturesque scene. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of the sacred nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if other visitors are present. Instagram

A smartphone with a good camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the essence of Mitsuishi Shrine. If you have a camera with good low-light capabilities, it can be helpful if you visit during dusk. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites in Japan to ensure peace and respect. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

Daylight hours are best for clear visibility of the stones and the shrine. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting, but ensure you can still see the details of the handprints. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mitsuishi Shrine offers a fun and engaging way to introduce children to Japanese folklore. The story of the demon and his handprints is captivating for younger visitors. It's a short, easy visit, so it won't tire out little ones. Reddit

Tip: Encourage kids to look for the 'demon's handprints' on the stones – it turns the visit into a treasure hunt! The shrine is also conveniently located near parks, making it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Morioka. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers

For solo travelers or those on a day trip to Morioka, Mitsuishi Shrine is a perfect, quick cultural stop. It requires minimal time commitment but offers a unique glimpse into local legends and history. Reddit

Recommendation: Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Iwate Park or explore other temples and shrines in the vicinity. The shrine's easy accessibility from the city center makes it a seamless addition to any itinerary. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Demon's Handprints

Mitsuishi Shrine's fame is deeply rooted in its captivating folklore. The name 'Mitsuishi' itself translates to 'three stones,' referring to the three massive boulders that form the shrine's centerpiece. According to local legend, these stones are not just geological formations but are imbued with supernatural significance. InstagramReddit

Long ago, a fearsome demon named Rasetsu terrorized the region, preying on villagers and travelers alike. In their desperation, the people prayed to the local deity residing in the stones, known as God Mitsuishi. The god answered their pleas, engaging in a fierce battle with Rasetsu. After defeating the demon, God Mitsuishi bound him to the three sacred rocks, forcing him to swear an oath never to harm the people again. As a permanent mark of this pact, the demon was compelled to leave his handprint imprinted on the stones. InstagramReddit

This ancient tale not only explains the shrine's name and its unique visual elements but also connects it to the broader cultural landscape of Iwate Prefecture, often associated with 'rock' and 'hand' imagery. Visitors are encouraged to read the informational signs at the shrine to fully appreciate the depth of this mystical story. Reddit

Exploring Mitsuishi Shrine and its Surroundings

Mitsuishi Shrine is a compact and easily navigable site, making it an ideal stop for those exploring Morioka. The shrine grounds are small, and the main focus is on the three large stones that are central to its legend. Visitors typically spend about 10 to 15 minutes here, taking in the atmosphere and examining the stones for the fabled handprints. Reddit

While the shrine itself is modest, its charm lies in its unique story and its accessibility. It's often visited in conjunction with other nearby attractions, such as Iwate Park, which offers broader recreational opportunities and historical insights into the region. The proximity to the city center means it can be easily incorporated into a walking tour of Morioka's cultural landmarks. Reddit

For those interested in local traditions, the shrine has also been a site for cultural performances, such as the Sansa dance, which is performed to pray for health and success during festivals. This highlights the shrine's ongoing role in the community's spiritual and cultural life. Instagram

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