Explore Hakone’s Spiritual Power Spots: Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine - Japan Travel Sights

Hakone Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Ashi, is one of the most renowned shrines in the Kanto region.

Known for blessings in traffic safety and good fortune, it has been revered for centuries. Nearby, the Kuzuryu Shrine has gained popularity for its powerful love blessings, especially for those praying for romantic connections.

For a complete spiritual experience, visitors often partake in the “Dual Shrine Pilgrimage”, visiting both Hakone Shrine and Kuzuryu Shrine.

A Hidden Gem: The Tranquility of Kuzuryu Shrine

Nestled within the tranquil forest by the shores of Lake Ashi, Kuzuryu Shrine is considered a quiet yet potent power spot, especially among young women.

Despite its growing popularity, the shrine retains a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, offering a serene retreat for visitors.

The Legend Behind Kuzuryu Shrine

The shrine’s history dates back to its origins as an auxiliary shrine of Hakone Shrine.

According to legend, a nine-headed dragon once terrorized the locals of the region by summoning storms. It was the high priest Man-gan Shonin who, during the Nara Period, vanquished the dragon, leading it to repent and become a guardian deity. Kuzuryu Shrine was then built to honor this dragon-turned-god.

Love and Prosperity at Kuzuryu Shrine

Kuzuryu Shrine is famous for a range of blessings, including good fortune, prosperity, and love. It is particularly renowned as a destination for those seeking blessings in romantic relationships, making it a popular pilgrimage site for those hoping to find a soulmate.

Experience the Serenity of Kuzuryu Shrine’s Grounds

The shrine is surrounded by nature, with a picturesque red shrine building set against the lush green forest. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful moment at this compact yet beautiful shrine.

While the Monthly Festival attracts crowds, the shrine remains a tranquil and reflective spot on most days.

Visit Solo or With a Partner

While many women visit Kuzuryu Shrine in groups to pray for love, couples can also visit the shrine together.

Whether you wish to strengthen your current relationship or seek blessings for a future one, a visit to Kuzuryu Shrine could be just what you need.

Don’t Miss the Monthly Festival

If you’re visiting Kuzuryu Shrine for a love blessing, try to plan your trip around the Monthly Festival held on the 13th of each month. During this time, the shrine comes alive with visitors from all over Japan, especially young women, gathering to give thanks and pray for continued blessings.

What Happens During the Monthly Festival?

This event is held around the shrine’s main building, and participants offer prayers of gratitude and seek ongoing protection from Kuzuryu, the dragon god. Additionally, personal blessings can be received during the festival.

Getting to Kuzuryu Shrine: Plan Your Journey

Kuzuryu Shrine is somewhat difficult to access due to its remote location by Lake Ashi. However, on the 13th of each month, visitors can take a special pilgrimage boat from Moto-Hakone Port to the shrine, making the journey much easier.

The Pilgrimage Bus and Boat Service

On the day of the Monthly Festival, a pilgrimage bus runs from Odawara Station and Hakone-Yumoto Station to Moto-Hakone, where the special pilgrimage boat departs for Kuzuryu Shrine. Given that the festival begins early, taking the bus and boat combination is the most efficient way to reach the shrine.

Walk to Kuzuryu Shrine from Hakone-en or Kojiri

If you prefer to walk, the shrine is accessible by foot from either Hakone-en or Kojiri.

The walk takes about 30 minutes, offering a scenic route through nature.

Visit Hakone Shrine After Kuzuryu Shrine

After visiting Kuzuryu Shrine, make sure to head to Hakone Shrine for the complete spiritual experience. Located nearby, Hakone Shrine is one of the most powerful spiritual sites in the Kanto region.

Hakone Shrine: The Great Guardian of the Kanto Region

Hakone Shrine has been a focal point of mountain worship since its founding in 757 AD. Revered as Kantō Sōchinju Hakone Daigongen, the shrine is known for offering blessings in good fortune, traffic safety, success in one’s endeavors, and safe childbirth. Historical figures such as Minamoto no Yoritomo and Tokugawa Ieyasu are said to have visited this shrine, with its spiritual power attracting worshippers throughout history.

Don’t Miss the Kuzuryu Shrine New Hall

While Kuzuryu Shrine’s main building is across Lake Ashi, visitors can easily access the New Hall of Kuzuryu Shrine located right next to Hakone Shrine. Here, you can collect water from the sacred Ryujin Water source. Visitors often fill bottles purchased at Kuzuryu Shrine and take home this blessed water as a talisman for good fortune.