About Kosuge Shrine
Located in Iiyama City, Nagano, Kosuge Shrine is a historic sacred site with a history of over 1,300 years. It flourished especially as a center of Shugendō (mountain ascetic practices) and has long been deeply connected to the faith of the local community. As a symbol of mountain worship, it has been carefully protected and cherished by generations of local residents.
Experience History and Culture at the Satomiya Shrine
Begin your journey with a visit to the Satomiya (Lower Shrine) of Kosuge Shrine, located in the center of Iiyama City. As you explore the serene grounds and admire the beautiful carvings, you will gain insight into the shrine’s history and the faith traditions of Iiyama.
Trekking to the Okusha — Into the Sacred Mountain Path
After visiting the Satomiya Shrine, set out on a trek to the Okusha (Upper Shrine), located deep in the mountains at an elevation of 1,120 meters. Passing through the historic torii gate, you will enter a truly sacred space.
The round trip takes about 2–3 hours and leads you through avenues of ancient cedar and beech forests, as well as mysterious giant rock formations. Along the way, you will feel the spiritual energy of this mystical power spot surrounded by nature.
Community Connections and the Beauty of Nature
Kosuge Shrine stands at the heart of local faith and is a symbol of a way of life that exists in harmony with the changing seasons of nature. By visiting, you will feel a genuine connection with the community — something far deeper than ordinary sightseeing.
Sample Schedule & Highlights
| 9:00 – 9:45 | Meet at the designated location → Introduction to the day’s schedule → Depart for the Okumiya (Upper Shrine) |
| The tour begins at the Satomiya (Lower Shrine) of Kosuge Shrine, located at the foot of the mountains in Iiyama, Nagano. Here, you will visit the solemn worship hall and listen to a guide’s explanation about its history and faith traditions. From this point, you step into the sacred mountain path. | |
| 11:00 | Visit to the Okumiya (Upper Shrine) |
| Passing through centuries-old beech forests and massive rock formations, you will arrive at the Okumiya (Upper Shrine) of Kosuge Shrine, standing quietly at the mountaintop. Here, you will offer your prayers while feeling the sacred atmosphere of this spiritual site, once a holy ground for Shugendō practices. | |
| 11:30 | Departure from the Okumiya (Upper Shrine) |
| After completing your visit at the shrine, you will begin the descent, enjoying the beauty of nature from a fresh perspective while making your way safely and slowly down the mountain. |
| 12:30 | Arrive at the Satomiya (Lower Shrine) → End of Tour |
| Returning once again to the Satomiya (Lower Shrine), you will offer a final prayer while feeling both a pleasant sense of fatigue and a deep sense of accomplishment. For those interested, local goshuin stamps and regional souvenirs will also be introduced. This is a truly special mountain experience where nature, history, and faith come together in one journey. |
