Yohashira Shrine: A Wish for Every Heart

In the heart of Matsumoto City, Yohashira Shrine (四柱神社) stands as a spiritual beacon and cultural treasure. Built in 1879 during the Meiji Period, this Shinto shrine is dedicated to four powerful deities—Ame-no-Minakanushi-no-Kami, Takamimusubi-no-Kami, Kamimusubi-no-Kami, and Amaterasu-Omikami. The name “Yohashira” means “Four Pillars,” symbolizing the rare convergence of divine virtues believed to grant any wish—making it one of the most revered power spots in Nagano Prefecture.

🕊️ History & Significance

Yohashira Shrine was built to honor the Emperor’s visit and quickly became a spiritual center for locals. Its unique dedication to four deities is rare even in Japan, and the shrine is known for its wish-granting powers, attracting worshippers seeking blessings for love, health, success, and family well-being.

📍 Location & Transportation
Address: 3-3-20 Ote, Matsumoto City, Nagano
By Train: 10-minute walk from JR Matsumoto Station
By Bus: 1-minute walk from Daimyocho Bus Stop (Town Sneaker East Route)
By Car: 3 km from Nagano Expressway Matsumoto IC; paid parking available nearby

🕰️ Operation Hours & Entrance Fee
Open: 24 hours (best visited during daylight)
Amulet Reception: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Prayer Reception: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entrance Fee: Free

🌟 Must-Do Activities
- Purification Rituals: Cleanse your hands and spirit at the temizuya before entering.
- Prayer & Omamori: Offer prayers and purchase charms for protection, love, and success.
- Draw Omikuji: Try your luck with traditional fortune-telling paper strips.
- Seasonal Festivals: Don’t miss the Shinto-sai Festival (Oct 1–3) with floats, fireworks, and food stalls.
- Calligraphy & Craft Workshops: Learn Japanese shodo or create traditional crafts nearby.
- Tea Ceremony & Meditation: Experience serenity through matcha rituals and Zen-inspired mindfulness sessions.
- Photography & Flower Viewing: Capture the shrine’s beauty, especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons.
- Explore Nawate Street: Just steps away, this nostalgic shopping street offers local snacks, souvenirs, and riverside charm.

✨ Why Visit?

Yohashira Shrine is more than a spiritual site—it’s a cultural experience wrapped in nature, tradition, and heartfelt wishes. Whether you're seeking peace, blessings, or a deeper connection to Japan’s spiritual heritage, this shrine offers a tranquil yet vibrant escape in the center of Matsumoto.