Muku Jinja, Shinto shrine in Japan
Muku Jinja is a Shinto shrine in the Chichibu district featuring traditional wooden buildings with curved roofs and simple, clean designs. The grounds include small courtyards, offering boxes, and ancient trees connected by quiet pathways.
Originally known as Mukuno Jinja, the shrine was established centuries ago as a place where locals worshipped deities for health and safety. It was later recognized as a Ken-sha and remains an officially listed part of Japan's local shrine system.
The shrine is dedicated to Sarutahiko Okami, a deity associated with guidance and protection. Visitors participate in simple rituals like ringing a bell and bowing that have remained part of local customs for generations.
The shrine is walkable from nearby stations: about 10 minutes from Seibu-Chichibu Station or 5 minutes from Chichibu Railway's Ohanabatake Station. Visiting on quieter weekdays allows for a more peaceful experience away from festival crowds.
A tree over 1,000 years old called Ryujinboku or Dragon God Tree grows on the grounds and impresses visitors with its size and presence. Nearby stands Ryujin-ike pond, whose waters flow from Mount Buko and connect to local legends about dragon deities.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
