Hello, fellow travel lovers!
Since my first visit last year, Ayashi Shrine (Kokubu Ichinomiya Suwa Shrine) has become one of my favorite places.
In fact, the first article I wrote about this shrine unexpectedly became one of the most popular posts on the TabiJun blog.
▼ Read the previous article here
Amazing Blessings? Starting My Annual Pilgrimage Tradition at Ayashi Shrine in Sendai 🍒
That was the beginning of my yearly pilgrimage tradition.
Perhaps this really is one of those hidden power spots known only to those in the know.
And this year, I was fortunate enough to visit again.
Last year, I promised myself that I would return every year.
I'm grateful that I was healthy enough to make the trip once more, and I hope to return again next year.
Back to Ayashi Shrine
This time, I found the shrine easily via the Ayashi Bypass.
However, there is one thing to watch out for.
If you miss the small road on the left leading to the shrine, you'll end up taking quite a detour!
Keep an eye out if it's your first visit.
When the torii gate came into view, I couldn't help thinking,
"I'm back again this year."
🍒
Yamaboushi Trees in Full Bloom
The Yamaboushi trees around the shrine grounds were in full bloom.
Beyond them stretched peaceful rice fields.
And I even spotted a heron.
The healing atmosphere begins before you even reach the shrine.
Walking Along the Stone Lantern Path
On the left stands a monument commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Emperor's enthronement.
Passing through the torii gate,
I climbed the stone steps.
Popular Goshuin Stamps
At the top of the stairs, I found a display of available goshuin (shrine stamps).
Seasonal goshuin seem to be especially popular.
Arriving at the Main Shrine
Kokubu Ichinomiya Suwa Shrine has a history spanning more than 1,200 years.
The wooden latticework, which was under restoration during my last visit, looked beautifully renewed.
Inside the shrine, a traffic safety blessing ceremony was taking place.
At least, I think it was for traffic safety.
Of course, I happily received some blessings from the sidelines as well!
Ringing the Bell of Peace
The sound of the bell echoed gently throughout the grounds.
It instantly made me feel refreshed.
A Hidden Power Spot Deeper in the Grounds
Continuing deeper into the shrine grounds,
I discovered shrines dedicated to Tenman Daijizaiten and Sanpō Kōjin.
Photo: Rear View
Walking around to the back revealed something even more impressive.
There stood Kanehebi Suijin Shrine, Inari Shrine, and Hebi Shrine side by side.
A whole gathering of deities in one small area!
It felt like a theme park of spiritual power.
Blessings for wealth, business success, good fortune, family safety, and more are all concentrated here.
I found myself stopping to pray more than once.
Let's Visit Gotenyama!
"Gotenyama – 15 Minutes"
Sounds interesting!
Let's go! ...or so I thought.
The trail was closed.
Apparently, the closure was due to recent bear activity in the area.
As much as I enjoy adventure, a contest against a bear is one battle I have no intention of entering!
Safety first.
I'll save Gotenyama for another visit.
Paying Respect to Kannon and Jizo
On my way back down, I stopped to greet both Kannon and Jizo.
I also offered a prayer to Asahiyama Fudō Myōō.
Inside, I found a hanging scroll displaying seals from the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
It was a beautiful reminder of the faith and traditions passed down through generations.
Grateful to Be Here Again
I received blessings for safe travels and safe driving, but more than anything, I felt grateful simply to be here again.
Rather than making wishes, I found myself saying,
"Thank you."
ーーーー
I hope I can return here again next year in good health.
And I hope I can find some delicious cherries too. 🍒
Maybe the bathroom scale will be kind to me afterward!
Ayashi Shrine is not a large or flashy shrine.
Yet its peaceful countryside setting, historic buildings,
and collection of hidden spiritual spots make it a truly special place.
If you find yourself in the Sendai area, I highly recommend stopping by.
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip!
＊＊TabiJun＊＊
