History and Origins
The shrine’s origins are closely linked to the life of Emperor Tsuchimikado. After the Jōkyū War of 1221, he was sent away from the capital, first to Tosa Province and then, in 1223, to Awa Province. He died in Awa in 1231, during the Kanki era.
Following his death, local residents established a shrine north of his cremation mound to honor his spirit. It became known locally as Tennō-san, meaning “the emperor,” and remained an important place of worship for generations. In 1875, the shrine was renamed Maruyama Shrine. In 1940, as part of commemorations marking the 2,600th anniversary of the traditional founding of the Japanese imperial line, it received its present name, Awa Shrine.
Development in the Modern Era
The present shrine buildings were constructed in 1943 with support from the people of Tokushima Prefecture. A ceremony was held to dedicate the main sanctuary, and the shrine was designated a prefectural shrine under Japan’s prewar shrine-ranking system.
Plans were also made to grant it the highest rank of Kanpei Taisha, or government-supported grand shrine. However, the modern shrine-ranking system was abolished after World War II, before this designation could be formally completed.
Emperor Tsuchimikado
Emperor Tsuchimikado is the central figure in the shrine’s history. His life was shaped by the political turmoil of the Jōkyū War, after which he was sent away from the imperial capital. He eventually settled in Awa Province, where he died in 1231.
Awa Shrine preserves the memory of the emperor and the local community’s efforts to honor him. Its grounds, including the cremation mound associated with him, offer visitors an opportunity to reflect on a chapter of Japanese imperial history that unfolded far from the former capital.
Annual Festivals and Ceremonies
Awa Shrine holds several traditional ceremonies throughout the year. These events bring together local residents and worshippers, preserving customs associated with the shrine and its agricultural and spiritual traditions.
Yudate Kagura Festival – February 11
During this traditional ceremony, hot water is prepared and sacred kagura dances are offered. The ritual is performed to pray for good health, protection from illness, and abundant harvests.
Kinen Festival – April 29
The Kinen Festival is held to pray for a successful harvest. It features daidai kagura, a traditional form of sacred dance performed as an offering to the deities. Worshippers from the surrounding area and beyond attend the ceremony.
Summer Festival – First Sunday in July
The summer festival brings a lively atmosphere to the shrine and its surrounding community. Festivities include stalls and a procession carrying a portable shrine, known as a mikoshi.
Autumn Festival – October 11
The autumn festival is the shrine’s annual main festival. Traditional kagura performances and a mikoshi procession take place, along with kagura offerings presented by local groups. It is an important occasion for celebrating the area’s traditions and community ties.
Access
Awa Shrine is approximately a 10-minute walk from Ikenotani Station on the JR Kōtoku Line. Its convenient location makes it possible to visit by public transportation, and the surrounding area offers opportunities to explore other attractions in Naruto.
Discover Naruto’s History and Culture
With its connection to Emperor Tsuchimikado, historic cremation mound, and year-round ceremonies, Awa Shrine offers a quieter, more contemplative experience for travelers interested in Japanese history and religious traditions. A visit can also be combined with sightseeing around Naruto, including the Naruto Strait and Naruto Park, known for its dramatic coastal scenery and famous whirlpools.