Written by Jane Pipkin
Tsukubusuma Shrine is a Shinto Shrine on the edge of Chikubushima Island in Lake Biwa.
There are four main dieties enshrined here: Ichikishimahime (Benzaiten), Ugafukujin (White Snake), Azaihime (Guardian Deity of the Land), and the Dragon God. Because of this, the shrine is known to bring luck in many aspects of life, including traffic safety, good fortune, and prosperous business.
The main hall is a national treasure donated by Toyotomi Hideyoshi 450 years ago. To enjoy the best vantage point, walk through the worship hall, which overlooks Lake Biwa.
Take a moment to admire the Miyazaki torii gate near the lake. It’s a tradition to write a wish on a clay pot (kawarake) and throw it towards the gate. It is said if the kawarake passes through the gate, your wish will come true.
Note: To enter the island, adults will need to pay ¥600 and children ¥300. Be sure to visit the legendary Hogonji Temple at the top.
How to get there
To get to Tsukubusuma Shrine, you will first need to get to Chikubushima Island. Sightseeing boats depart from Nagahama, Hikone, and Omi-Imazu. Timetables differ depending on where you are departing from. Here is the one from Hikone Port.
Children: ¥300
