＜Iwashirokuni Ichinomiya/Aizu Sochinju Isasumi Shrine＞Ancient Shrine Preserving the Origins of the Name

Ancient Shrine Preserving the Origins of the Name "Aizu"

Founded during the reign of the 10th Emperor Emperor Sujin, this ancient shrine preserves approximately 2,000 years of history and the origins of the name "Aizu." Dedicated to four deities, the shrine is associated with blessings for harmonious marriages, meaningful connections, business success, and protection from misfortune in all directions. Seasonal rituals, including the nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property "Aizu no Otaue Festival," continue to preserve the traditions of the Aizu region. The grounds feature the sacred Usuzumi-zakura cherry tree, counted among the Five Great Cherry Trees of Aizu, the prefecturally designated Hiryu no Fuji wisteria, and the strolling garden "Ayame-en," home to the annual "Ayame Festival."

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View Valuable Important Cultural Properties at the Treasure Hall

This Muromachi period work is characterized by the family crest and torii stairs of the Ashina clan, a feudal lord of Mutsu known as the Date clan, and includes a "vermilion lacquered gold-bronze mikoshi" which is an important cultural property of the country, and the main parts of the wooden statue are made of marquetry. On display are a pair of wooden guardian dogs, an important cultural property of the , which were made by the lords, as well as shrine treasures and festival utensils related to successive feudal lords.

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"Iris Festival" Where About 200 Varieties Bloom

The "Ayame Festival" is held each year from mid to late June at the "Ayame Garden" in the outer grounds of Isasumi Shrine, a leading site in the Tohoku region. More than 200 varieties of irises, including hanashobu, ayame, and kakitsubata, reach peak bloom, alongside events such as open-air tea gatherings, the Ayame Nagashi dance, and traditional shrine festivities.