Akagi Shrine

Kunitachi Akagi Shrine is known as a cherry blossom viewing spot where about 50 types of cherry blossoms are dedicated in the precincts and the second parking lot. The types of cherry blossoms include Somei Yoshino, yamazakura, yaezakura, and shidarezakura, and during their peak bloom, a beautiful tunnel of flowers is created, making it a perfect cherry blossom viewing spot that is popular among many people. Kunitachi Akagi Shrine is not only a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot with many types of cherry blossoms in bloom, but also a shrine with historical value. When visiting for cherry blossom viewing, it's recommended to check the latest blooming information and enjoy the wonderful scenery!

Kunitachi Akagi Shrine is said to have been founded when a branch of the Akagi Shrine, which is located on Mount Akagi, was enshrined in the fourth year of Emperor Ankan's reign (535 AD). The shrine was built by Adachi Fujikuro, a vassal of Minamoto no Yoritomo, who became the guardian of Ueno Province (now Gunma Prefecture), and who respected the virtues of Okuninushi no Mikoto and Toyokiiri Hikonomikoto, the gods of land development. The shrine's main hall is said to have been built in 1569 during the Eiroku era and is designated as a designated cultural property by the city. The main hall of Kunitachi Akagi Shrine is historically important and is a must-see for many visitors!

At Kokutei Akagi Shrine, a limited-time Sakura Seal is awarded in the spring. The seal is very popular and attracts many visitors. Unlike regular seals, the Sakura Seal is adorned with cute cherry blossom petals. To receive the seal, you must visit the shrine with a seal book, and only one seal per person is allowed. The seal is an important "proof of visit" that connects you with the shrine, and we recommend receiving a memorable seal as a souvenir!

The Okawa Museum of Art in Kiryu City, Gunma Prefecture is a museum exhibiting the collection of Eiji Okawa, both domestic and foreign. The exhibits consist of approximately 7,300 pieces, including works by Junzo Matsumoto and Hideo Noda, who have left a significant mark on the history of modern Japanese Western-style painting, as well as overseas art. The museum opened in 1989 and is located on the slope of a small hill, offering a panoramic view of the city from the museum. It is a nationally famous museum and we recommend visiting it together with Akagi Shrine!

Houtokuji Temple is a Rinzai sect temple founded in the Muromachi period. The temple grounds feature a dry landscape garden that uses the mountain slope as borrowed scenery, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the four seasons. In addition, from late April to May, the green leaves of the maple trees covering the ground are specially opened to the public, and from June, the daffodil garden is in full bloom. Various events are held throughout the seasons, such as the wind chime festival in July and the special opening of the red leaves of the maple trees in November. The temple also offers art goshuin, making it popular among travelers collecting goshuin stamps. Houtokuji Temple offers different scenery and events throughout the seasons and has historical value, so why not visit it along with Akagi Shrine?