鎮 - Warei Jinja Shrine

From a tragic death to a guardian deity of the region.

Warei Shrine

WAREI-JINJA SHRINE

Warei Shrine has its origins in the tragic assassination of Yanbe Seibei, the chief retainer of the Uwajima Date clan, on a hot summer night over 400 years ago.
Seibei was a trusted ally of Date Masamune and played a key role in building Uwajima Domain. His brutal murder, along with his children, was reportedly linked to financial disputes.
Following a series of mysterious deaths believed to be caused by Seibei’s vengeful spirit, locals enshrined him as a deity.
Today, the Warei Festival in July honours his memory, and the Warei faith continues to be cherished in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions.

Recommended Points

Pass over the arched Miyuki Bridge connecting the park with Warei Shrine, it witnessed the air raids on Uwajima at the end of World War II. Even today, its surface bears scars that testify to its storied past.

Visit the samurai who became a deity and share your wishes. Pray for prosperity, industrial development, home safety, or business success. He is especially worshipped by those in the maritime and fishing industries. Don't forget to pick up a protective Omamori charm.

Two gates of Warei Shrine are located in the park, including one of Japan's largest granite torii. Between them lies Warei Park, where you can spend time with your family, see an original steam locomotive that once connected Uwajima to other cities, and more.

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