Yahiko Shrine

| A hidden gem in Hokuriku, Japan. Niigata | A hidden gem in Hokuriku, Japan✨ 🌊【Sado Island: Encounter Stunning Island Scenery】 To get to Sado Island, you first need to take a ferry. As the ferry slowly approaches the island, the sea breeze carries the unique salty scent of the ocean, instantly blowing away the fatigue of the journey. As soon as I disembarked, I was amazed by the scenery before my eyes. In Aikawa Port, the ancient streets and wooden buildings are full of the charm of the Edo period, as if traveling back in time. Strolling along the streets, you can see many traditional craft shops. Sado's gold mine crafts are quite famous, and the exquisite gold leaf products shimmer with a captivating glow under the sunlight. Buying a few as souvenirs is perfect🎁. What impressed me the most was visiting Sado Yahiko Shrine. The shrine is located by the sea, surrounded by lush mountains and forests. Walking up the long stone steps, my heart was filled with awe. Here, you can not only appreciate the exquisite beauty of traditional Japanese architecture but also overlook the stunning sea view. At sunset, the afterglow of the setting sun sprinkles on the sea, creating a shimmering effect. The whole world is dyed golden yellow, and the magnificence and tranquility make me linger, reluctant to leave🌅. ❄️【Echigo-Yuzawa: A Dreamy Snow Country in Winter】 Niigata is a prefecture known for heavy snowfall in Japan, and Echigo-Yuzawa is the perfect place to experience the charm of a snow country. As soon as I got off the train, I was stunned by the white world in front of me. The entire town was covered with thick snow, like a dream kingdom in a fairy tale. The ski resorts here are a paradise for ski lovers🎿, with everything from beginner slopes to advanced slopes. Whether you're a novice or a skiing expert, you can find your own joy here. I put on my ski gear and sped down the slopes, feeling the wind whistling past my ears. The feeling of freedom and exhilaration was truly fantastic! Besides skiing, there's another experience not to be missed in Echigo-Yuzawa - hot springs. After a tiring day of play, jump into a steaming hot spring and let the warm spring water envelop you, instantly dispelling the day's fatigue. Looking at the snowy scenery outside through the steam of the hot spring pool, this is probably the most pleasant time in winter♨️. 🍚【Food Exploration: The Taste of Niigata on the Tip of Your Tongue】 Every bite of Niigata's cuisine allows you to experience the bounty of this land. First and foremost is Niigata rice! This is a famous rice-producing area in Japan. The cooked rice is plump, sweet, and soft. Just eating plain rice can make you feel incredibly happy🍚. Sushi made with Niigata rice is even more delicious. Fresh sashimi paired with sweet rice, one bite is full of the flavors of the sea and the land. There's also Niigata's special ramen, which is completely different from ramen in other places. The rich and mellow pork bone broth, paired with firm and smooth noodles, plus tender and juicy char siu and crisp side dishes, every bite is irresistible. On a cold winter day, a bowl of steaming hot ramen is truly satisfying🥢. Of course, Niigata's seafood is also not to be missed. At the fish market, all kinds of fresh sea fish and shellfish are dazzling. Buy some on the spot and have the shop simply process them, and you can taste the most authentic seafood. The fresh and sweet taste still lingers in my memory🦀. This trip to Niigata was truly a journey of discovery full of surprises. Its tranquility, its beauty, and its cuisine have all captivated me. My friends, if you also want to escape the hustle and bustle and find a unique and niche travel destination, Niigata is definitely a top choice! Trust me, once you step on this land, you will fall in love with it💖!

Niigata, Japan is located in the north-central part of Honshu Island, facing the Sea of Japan. It is in the central part of the coast of the Sea of Japan and is a sea route transportation hub on the coast of the Sea of Japan. There are many places worth visiting in Niigata, Japan. Here are some of the main tourist attractions: Natural Landscapes - Kiyotsu Gorge: Located in Tokamachi City, it is one of the "Three Great Gorges of Japan." The scenery of the gorge varies throughout the seasons, with streams flowing and cliffs on both sides. There are also spectacular igneous rock formations known as "columnar joints." - Hoshitoge Rice Terraces: Located in Tokamachi City, it has been selected as one of the "100 Best Villages in Japan." You may see a sea of clouds in the early morning. The water-filled rice paddies are as beautiful as "water mirrors" under the sunlight. The cascading rice terraces, surrounding mountains, and villages form a picturesque idyllic landscape. - Seaside Park: This park boasts the best white sand beach in Japan. The sand is fine and soft, and the seawater is clear and blue. It is a good place to enjoy a seaside vacation, sunbathe, and participate in water activities. You can also stroll through the forest and enjoy the natural beauty. Historical and Cultural Sites - Bandai Bridge: Built in the early Showa era, it is a rare large-scale concrete arch bridge that has been preserved to this day. It is also one of Niigata's landmarks. Standing on the bridge, you can overlook the Shinano River and the cityscape. - Yahiko Shrine: Located at the foot of Mount Yahiko, it has a long history and simple and elegant architecture. It is famous for its beautiful torii gates and main hall. The garden inside the shrine is shaded by green trees, and streams flow. You can also take a cable car to the top of Mount Yahiko to overlook the surrounding scenery. - Northern Culture Museum: The museum preserves and opens to the public the former residence of a large landowner in Echigo. You can admire the circuit-style garden with a pond, the collections of successive owners, and the changing scenery of the four seasons. It is a good place to learn about local history and culture. Leisure and Entertainment - GALA Yuzawa Snow Resort: Conveniently accessible by Shinkansen, the resort has a wide area and a variety of slopes suitable for skiers of different levels, especially beginners. - Tsukioka Onsen: Famous for its rare sulfur-containing oil, the hot spring water is emerald green and weakly alkaline, with little irritation to the skin. The hot spring town has many shops and is full of Japanese charm. Here, you can relax and enjoy the comfort and pleasure of the hot springs. - Niigata Senbei Kingdom: This is an interactive rice cracker museum where you can buy a variety of handmade senbei (rice crackers). You can also experience the method of making rice crackers yourself and learn about the production process of senbei. It is very suitable for parent-child interaction.

| Yahiko Shrine—The Soul of Echigo Country. 👍 Recommended Reason: Niigata's Most Spiritual Shrine Yahiko Shrine (やひこじんじゃ), located at the foot of Mount Yahiko in Niigata Prefecture, is one of the most important shrines in the Echigo region (now Niigata Prefecture). It enshrines Ame no Kagoyama no Mikoto, the great-grandson of Amaterasu, and is affectionately called "Oyahiko-sama" by locals. The shrine is surrounded by lush forests and fresh air, making it ideal for quiet prayer, mountain viewing, and enjoying the autumn leaves and cherry blossoms. ✅ A Sacred Place with a Thousand Years of History—Legend has it that it has a history of over 1,300 years and is one of the most sacred shrines in the hearts of Niigata people. ✅ A Place for Prayers to Come True—It is mainly a place to pray for good luck, victory, business success, career advancement, and health and longevity, and is deeply loved by worshippers. ✅ Beautiful in All Seasons, with Cherry Blossoms in Spring and Autumn Leaves in Fall—Cherry blossoms bloom in spring, autumn leaves paint a picturesque scene in fall, and the winter snow-covered shrine offers breathtaking views. ✅ Easy Ascent to Mount Yahiko—You can choose to hike or take the Mount Yahiko Cable Car. From the summit, you can overlook the entire Niigata countryside and the Sea of Japan. ⸻ 📅 Itinerary: Shrine Visit + Mountain Climbing and Scenic Views ⛩️ Shrine Visit Procedure (Traditional Japanese Shrine Etiquette) 1️⃣ Bow at the Torii Gate: Before entering the sacred grounds, bow slightly. 2️⃣ Cleanse at the Temizuya: Wash your hands and mouth with the ladle. 3️⃣ Pray at the Main Hall: Toss a coin, bow twice, clap twice, bow once, and make a sincere wish. 4️⃣ Omikuji or Omamori: Draw an Omikuji to predict your fortune or buy an Omamori for protection. 5️⃣ Visit the Okumiya: Challenge yourself to climb to the Okumiya at the top of Mount Yahiko and experience the sacred atmosphere. 🌸 Seasonal Highlights 🌸 Spring (Mid-April to Early May)—Cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and the path in front of the shrine transforms into a pink sea of flowers. 🍃 Summer (June to August)—The forest is lush and green, and the temperature is pleasant, making it suitable for escaping the heat and hiking in the mountains. 🍁 Autumn (Late October to November)—The autumn leaves complement the ancient shrine, creating a picturesque scene. ❄️ Winter (December to February)—The snow-covered torii gate and main hall create a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere. 🚶 Must-Do Experiences 📸 Photograph the Large Red Torii Gate—The vermillion torii gate at the entrance of the shrine, about 30 meters high, is a landmark of Niigata. 🛤️ Ride the Mount Yahiko Cable Car—Take the cable car from the base station and reach the top of Mount Yahiko in 5 minutes to enjoy the panoramic view of the Sea of Japan. 🎋 Participate in the "Yahiko Lantern Festival" (Every July)—The lanterns lit at night create a magical atmosphere. 🥋 Experience Sumo Culture—There is a "Hono Sumo Ring" inside the shrine where sumo performances are held irregularly. ⸻ 🚗 Transportation: How to Get There? 📍 Address: 2887-2 Yahiko, Yahiko Village, Nishikanbara District, Niigata Prefecture 🚆 Train: • Take the JR Yahiko Line from Niigata Station to Yahiko Station (approx. 50 mins), then walk for 10 mins. • If departing from Tokyo, take the Joetsu Shinkansen to Niigata Station, then transfer to the JR Yahiko Line. 🚗 Car: • Approx. 1-hour drive from Niigata City. • Free parking is available, but it may be crowded during the autumn leaf season. ⸻ 🍜 Food Recommendations: Niigata Specialties There are many long-established restaurants in the Yahiko Onsen town near the shrine. Recommendations: 🍶 Niigata Sake (Koshino Kanbai, Hakkaisan)—Niigata is famous for its sake, perfect for taking a bottle home. 🍢 Dengaku Miso Tofu—Available at stalls in front of the shrine, grilled to fragrant perfection. 🍜 Niigata Ramen (Tsubamesanjo Style)—Thick soy sauce broth with thick noodles, offering a hearty texture. 🐟 Seafood Bowl—With its proximity to the Sea of Japan, Niigata offers incredibly fresh seafood. Salmon Oyako Don or local Benizuwai crab are recommended. ⸻ 💗 Other Tips ✔️ Recommended Omamori for Good Luck: • Victory Omamori—Suitable for examinees, athletes, and working professionals. • Love Omamori—Pink in color, suitable for praying for a good relationship. • Health and Longevity Omamori—Suitable as a gift for elders, symbolizing peace and health. ✔️ Clothing Recommendations: • Light jacket and comfortable shoes are suitable for spring and autumn. • Winter temperatures are low, so warm clothing and accessories are recommended. • Hiking shoes are recommended if you plan to climb Mount Yahiko. ✔️ Yahiko Shrine vs. Other Famous Shrines in Japan • More tranquil and less commercialized than Kasuga Taisha Shrine in Nara. • More natural and surrounded by fresh air than Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine in Kyoto. • More easily accessible than Ise Grand Shrine, suitable for a half-day trip. ⸻ 🌿 Yahiko Shrine—The spiritual symbol of Echigo Country, tranquil and filled with a sacred atmosphere, allows one to immerse themselves and experience the charm of ancient Japanese beliefs! ⛩️

😊 Niigata's Yahiko Shrine exudes a unique and charming aura, making it an unmissable sight when visiting Japan. Stepping into the grounds of Yahiko Shrine feels like entering another tranquil world😌. First, the torii gate standing before you is undoubtedly one of the most striking sights. The torii is tall and solemn, with its wooden structure weathered by time, exuding an ancient and profound aura. The mottled tree patterns seem to be traces left by time, each one telling the long history of the shrine. When sunlight filters through the gaps in the torii, casting shadows on the ground, it feels like a mysterious path laid out by the gods for every visitor, guiding them to the sacred hall🧐. Passing through the torii and walking along the winding path, you will see the magnificent main hall. The eaves and corners of the main hall showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of traditional Japanese architecture. The roof tiles are arranged in an orderly manner, shimmering with golden light under the sun, like a golden ocean. The main hall's doors are tightly closed, with intricate carvings on the doors vividly depicting mysterious scenes, as if telling ancient legends and beliefs. Inside the hall, the atmosphere is solemn and sacred, with statues of deities enshrined in the altar, evoking a sense of awe🙏. Surrounding the shrine is a lush forest🌳, gently swaying in the wind, as if softly singing to every visitor. The towering pine and cypress trees stand strong and upright, like loyal guardians of the shrine, standing for thousands of years. Walking along the shrine's paths, the sound of footsteps on the stone-paved road creates a natural symphony. Occasionally, you may see people in kimonos, holding incense sticks and praying sincerely, their focused and devout expressions adding to the shrine's peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. Around the shrine, there are many related attractions and activities. From Kojiro Hill, you can overlook the entire Yahiko Shrine and its surroundings, with rolling mountains and scattered buildings forming a beautiful picture under the sun. Jingu Lake is famous for its mirror-like surface, with ripples forming on the water under the gentle breeze, as if nature has draped a mysterious veil over the shrine. The cherry blossom trees by the lake bloom with pink flowers in spring, creating a picturesque scene with the ancient buildings, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. The atmosphere here is tranquil and peaceful, as if time has stopped. It allows people to temporarily forget the hustle and bustle of the world and immerse themselves in this serene and mysterious world, purifying their souls✨. 😊 I hope more people can visit Yahiko Shrine to experience its unique charm and feel the mystery and tranquility of this ancient culture.

Friends, today I'm sharing a hidden gem of a travel destination in Japan—Niigata✨. It's the "Snow Country" from Kawabata Yasunari's novel, with stunning natural landscapes and unique cultural customs. It's both off the beaten path and incredibly photogenic, so save this post now! 🏞️Sightseeing Check-in - Kiyotsu Gorge: One of Japan's three great gorges, with cliffs on both sides and the Kiyotsu River flowing through it. The panoramic view from the end of the tunnel is incredibly beautiful for photos, and the winter snowscape is like a fairy tale. Take the express bus from Echigo-Yuzawa Station towards Mori-Miyanohara, get off at the Kiyotsu Gorge entrance bus stop (about 25 minutes), and walk for another 30 minutes. Tickets are ¥1000 for adults and ¥400 for children. - Hoshitoge Rice Terraces: Selected as one of the "100 Best Villages in Japan." You might encounter a sea of clouds in the early morning, and the water-filled rice paddies are like mirrors, breathtakingly beautiful! - Yahiko Shrine: Located at the foot of Mount Yahiko, it's quiet and spiritual, famous for its beautiful torii gates and main hall. Take the cable car to the top of Mount Yahiko for a panoramic view. 🍱Food Recommendations - Red snow crab: The red snow crab from the Sea of Japan is of excellent quality, with sweet and tender meat. You can indulge in crab at "Kaniya Yokocho" (Crab Alley) at affordable prices, and pair it with crab soup, scallops, and other snacks. - Seaweed soba: Soba noodles made with seaweed called "funori," served in "hegi" bowls. They have a unique and chewy texture. - Sake: Niigata is an important sake-producing region in Japan. "Ponshukan," inside Echigo-Yuzawa Station, offers over 100 kinds of sake. For ¥500, you get 5 coins to sample different sakes, many of which are limited editions. 🏨Accommodation Options - Hoshino Resorts RISONARE Myoko: Features rooms with cloud-sea terraces and exceptional views. The facilities are comprehensive, and the service is attentive, making it suitable for a relaxing vacation, though the price is on the higher side. - APA Hotel Niigata-Ekimae: The top choice for value. It's a 3-minute walk from the JR station, offers free ski equipment storage, and is conveniently located. 🚗Transportation Guide - From Tokyo, you can take the Shinkansen, which takes about 2 hours to reach Niigata. You can enjoy the scenery along the way. - For local transportation, you can choose buses or JR lines. If you want to explore more freely, renting a car is also a good option. 🎈Travel Tips 1. Niigata gets a lot of snow in winter, so remember to bring warm clothes and non-slip shoes. 2. Some attractions and activities require advance booking, so it's recommended to plan your itinerary in advance. Everyone, come experience this unique Japanese romance in Niigata💖

From Yoshida Station, transfer to the Yahiko Line. After about 10 minutes, you will arrive at Yahiko Village. The village is very peaceful, surrounded by lush greenery of grass and trees, with gentle streams and cedar wood. As you continue walking forward, Yahiko Shrine comes into view. The prayer ring in front of the main hall exudes a mystical aura. Following the worship process, visiting Yahiko Shrine becomes a way to cleanse the troubles of the mundane world.

During our stay in Niigata, we made a memorable visit to Yahiko Shrine, and it quickly became one of my personal favorites. Nestled in a lush forest and embraced by mountains, the entire setting exuded tranquility and spiritual calm. The walk from the car park to the main shrine was already a highlight. Surrounded by towering green trees, the peaceful forest path felt almost therapeutic. Breathing in the fresh mountain air and listening to the gentle sounds of nature made the short hike feel both refreshing and energizing. The shrine itself, set against the backdrop of the surrounding hills, was majestic yet understated, and provided the perfect opportunity for some stunning photographs. Facilities such as clean washrooms were available near the top, which was appreciated. If you’re in Niigata, Yahiko Shrine is a must-visit—not just for its cultural significance, but for the serenity it offers in a naturally beautiful setting. #summervacay #YahikoShrine #NiigataTravel #HiddenJapan #ShrineInTheWoods #SpiritualJapan #NatureWalkJapan #ForestShrine #PeacefulPlaces #OffTheBeatenPathJapan #ShrineEscape #japan #japantrip #tohoku #travel #tohokutrip

At the foot of Mount Yahiko lies a thousand-year-old shrine, where 180 vermilion lanterns illuminate the night, turning the stone steps into a river of light. The shrine maidens teach the method of praying for 'love fulfillment': write an ema together and then circle the Couple Cedar three times. Midway up the mountain, the 'Dragon Waterfall' is revered as a power spot, where couples hold hands and walk through the rainbow in the mist. On the way back, try the 'Sasa Dango Fortune Telling' at the tea house along the path. If you find the red bean filling full when you peel off the bamboo leaf, the proprietress will squint and say, 'Your bond is strong.'