Kuzuharaoka Shrine
葛原岡神社
A shrine within Genjiyama Park, popular especially among women as the "god of matchmaking." Its distinctive style of worship involves touching the "Fuku-ishi" matchmaking stone on the grounds while making a wish. Believed to sever bad relationships and forge good ones, it draws many visitors seeking votive plaques and charms.
Matchmaking and relationship-cutting
The grounds have both an "En-musubi-ishi" (matchmaking stone) and an "En-kiri-ishi" (relationship-cutting stone). Visitors seeking good relationships touch the matchmaking stone, while those wishing to end a bad relationship touch the cutting stone. It has an established reputation as a matchmaking spot popular with women.
The spirit of Hino Toshimoto
The enshrined deity, Hino Toshimoto, was a close aide to Emperor Go-Daigo who plotted to overthrow the Kamakura shogunate. When the plot was discovered, he was executed on this spot in 1332. The shrine was built in the Meiji era to honor his loyal spirit.
A combined walk with Genjiyama Park
The shrine is surrounded by Genjiyama Park, famous for its spring cherry blossoms. It's a popular stop along the hiking route from Zeniarai Benzaiten through Genjiyama Park toward Kamakura Station.
Seasonal Highlights
🌸 Spring (Mar-May)
A pleasant spring walk combined with the cherry blossoms of Genjiyama Park; peak bloom is late March to early April.
🌿 Summer (Jun-Aug)
The deep-green grounds stay cool and comfortable even in summer, a handy rest stop while hiking.
🍁 Autumn (Sep-Nov)
During foliage season, the whole area around Genjiyama Park turns beautiful colors, with the large trees on the grounds glowing like brocade.
❄️ Winter (Dec-Feb)
Busy at New Year's with visitors praying for good relationships. The crisp winter air is refreshing.
Visit Tips
- Suggested duration
- About 20-30 minutes
- Crowd levels
- Can get crowded on weekends as a matchmaking spot. Since it's along a hiking route, wear suitable walking shoes.
- Best time to visit
- Best visited via the hiking route from Zeniarai Benzaiten, enjoying nature through Genjiyama Park along the way
| Address | 5-9-1 Kajiwara, Kamakura, Kanagawa |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open access to the grounds |
| Admission | Free |
| Official Website | Visit official website |
Access
- 30 min walk from Kamakura Station (On foot (via Zeniarai Benzaiten))