Asuwa Shrine, viewed from afar (Photo: Takako Sakamoto)

Fukui: Asuwa Shrine in Mt. Asuwa

Enjoy the 370-year-old weeping cherry!

Takako Sakamoto   - 1 min read

Asuwa Shrine is located halfway up Mt. Asuwa, a 10-minute climb from Atagozaka (Atago hill). The 26th Emperor, Keitai, built this shrine just before he left for Kyoto from Echizen (now Fukui prefecture) to ascend to the throne. The Asuwa shrine enshrines Emperor Keitai, along with many other Gods like the Gods of children, safe-births, good business, water, fire, academic achievements, etc. The shrine is famous for its 370-year-old weeping cherry tree, whose gracious beauty pleasures local people every year. Mt. Asuwa is easy to climb, and people enjoy hiking on the mountain trails in spring and autumn when cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are lovely to the eyes. There are various events such as Tea Ceremony that are held in the Asuwa Mountain Park.

Takako Sakamoto

Takako Sakamoto @takako.sakamoto

I was born in and grew up in Tokushima prefecture, and have lived in many places since then: Nishinomiya, Kyoto, Nara, Mie, Tokyo, Kanagawa, Saitama, Chiba, Fukuoka and Fukui. I am currently living in Yokohama City. All the places I lived, all the places I visited, I have loved dearly. The histor...