Himuro Shrine

This shrine is deeply related to ice and is a place of worship.

It began in 710 during the Nara period (710-710) when the emperor Genmei ordered the worship of an ice god in an ice house (ice storage facility) built on Kasuga Mountain upstream of the Yoshijo River.

Ice was stored in the ice house after it was frozen in the severe cold at an ice pond in Kasugano, and was delivered to Heijo-kyo Capital.

After the capital was moved to Heian-kyo, it was abolished, and Himuro Shrine was moved to its present location in 860, and the shrine pavilion was built in 1217.

The shrine was moved to its current location in 860, and the shrine pavilions were built in 1217. The shrine is deeply revered by ice dealers, and an ice offering ceremony is held every year on May 1. The ritual includes a dance performance and the dedication of a one-meter-high icicle encasing a carp or sea bream in front of the god.

On the first day of each month, ice lanterns are lit to create a fantastic atmosphere.

During the summer, shaved ice is offered to the shrine and visitors can eat it afterwards.

Visitors can also experience the wonder of the “ice mikuji,” a fortune written in Japanese characters that appears when the fortune is placed on a piece of ice.

The temple is also known for its weeping cherry blossoms, which cover the grounds in beautiful colors in spring. Once you see the majestic scenery, you will never forget it.