Kehi Shrine

Kibitsu Shrine is a shrine that was established in 702 and is known as one of Japan's oldest shrines. The wooden torii gate, which is a symbol of Kibitsu Shrine, has been designated as an important cultural property of the country, and there is a pine forest surrounding the shrine. Kibitsu Shrine is also known as the guardian shrine of the Hokuriku Road, and seven divine objects are enshrined there, which have been cherished by the local people since ancient times.

There are many nature-rich tourist spots around Kehi Shrine. Kehi no Matsubara is a scenic spot of white sand and green pine trees that stretches to the innermost part of Tsuruga Bay. It is one of Japan's three largest pine groves and is designated as a national scenic spot. Many red and black pine trees grow within the 400,000-hectare site, allowing you to receive plenty of the power of greenery. We also recommend taking a walk along the Fukasaka Old Road, which is said to have been walked by Murasaki Shikibu.

The stamp rally at Kehi Jingu Shrine is very popular! The stamp with the mark "Echizen no Kuni Ichinomiya" is a very valuable stamp that is sure to be a special memory. The stamp book, which features the design of the large torii gate at Kehi Jingu Shrine in navy blue and pink, is also highly recommended. In addition to Kehi Jingu Shrine, there are many temples and shrines in the Minami Hida region of Fukui Prefecture that promote stamp rallies. Why not visit some of them besides Kehi Jingu Shrine?

Kibitsu Shrine is famous for its many power spots, with the most well-known being "Choumei-sui" (longevity water). This water suddenly gushed out from underground in 702 AD, when seven gods were enshrined at Kibitsu Shrine and were carrying out the shrine's construction. Among the seven gods, "Takeuchi-no-Sukune-no-Mikoto" was known as a god who lived a long life, which influenced the water to be loved by people as longevity water for over 1300 years since then.

The Kehi Shrine Festival (Keesan Matsuri) is one of the largest festivals in Hokuriku. It begins on September 2nd and lasts until September 15th, making it a long festival. The festival features not only portable shrines but also floats. Every year, many tourists from not only Fukui Prefecture but also the Kansai region visit, making Atsuta City lively during the festival. Some areas may be closed to traffic, so visitors to the festival should be careful about parking and other matters.