Mitsumine Shrine

Mitsumine Shrine (三峯神社, Mitsumine-jinja) is an atmospheric shrine at the summit of Mount Mitsumine in Chichibu. A popular center of mountain worship, the shrine's forested grounds are home to a range of highly ornate buildings. Today, the shrine can be comfortably reached by bus or car, but it also remains accessible as part of a hiking trail network that connects Mount Mitsumine with the valley below and neighboring peaks and valleys.

At the entrance to the shrine grounds stands a triple torii gate (mitsu-torii), a very rare style of torii. In front of it are two stone wolves instead of the stone dogs (koma inu) usually flanking shrine entrances. Mitsumine Shrine is a relatively rare shrine that worships Japanese wolves, a now-extinct animal that has been revered as a guardian against misfortune. To the left of the torii gate, visitors will find a small treasure hall with exhibits pertaining to the history of the shrine including information on wolves, wolf pelts and documents focusing on the imperial family and its connection to the shrine.

One of the shrine's defining features are the intricate carvings found on many of its buildings, especially on the Zuishinmon Gate and the offering hall. The carvings depict everything from creatures to flowers in vivid colors that contribute to a level of opulence within the complex that is relatively unique in Japan and is seen only at another handful of establishments including Nikko's Toshogu Shrine.

Another place not to miss on the shrine grounds is a small pavilion that looks out over the surrounding mountains and valleys. Furthermore, there are also various smaller shrines on the grounds that are dedicated to a variety of other prominent gods.