Released in 2016, “Your Name.” by director Makoto Shinkai recorded a major hit that will be remembered in Japanese film history. Its beautiful imagery and moving story continue to captivate many fans. “Pilgrimage to sacred sites” visiting the locations featured in the work remains popular today, and in particular, Keta Wakamiya Shrine in Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, is one of the important model locations that many fans visit.
In this article, we thoroughly explain the charm of Keta Wakamiya Shrine, how to access it, photography spots, proper conduct when visiting, and surrounding tourist information—all the information necessary for a sacred site pilgrimage.
What is Keta Wakamiya Shrine? Its Relationship with “Your Name.”
The History and Origins of the Shrine
Keta Wakamiya Shrine (気多若宮神社) is a historic shrine located in Kamiketa, Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture. Its principal deity is Ōnamuchi no Mikoto, and it is said to bring blessings of matchmaking, family safety, and business prosperity.
As a center of faith in the Hida region, it has long been cherished by local people. The shrine building nestled quietly in the mountains creates a beautiful landscape harmonized with Hida’s nature.
Its Position as a Model Location for “Your Name.”
In the production of “Your Name,” director Makoto Shinkai and his staff conducted multiple field research trips to the Hida region, and Keta Wakamiya Shrine was also among their subjects. In particular, the atmosphere and structure of this shrine are said to have been referenced as one of the models for the “Miyamizu Shrine” where the protagonist Mitsuha serves as a shrine maiden.
The stone steps, torii gates, and atmosphere of the grounds depicted in the film strongly reflect elements of Keta Wakamiya Shrine, and fans who visit are said to report being able to experience the world of the work.
Highlights and Photography Spots at Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Stone Steps and Torii Gates: Scenery Reminiscent of the Film
The greatest attraction of Keta Wakamiya Shrine is the stone steps and torii gates leading along the approach path. As you climb the moss-covered stone steps, you experience a sensation as if a scene from the film comes back to life.
Especially in the early morning hours or at dusk, filtered sunlight and gentle light pour in, enveloping the area in a fantastical atmosphere. This time of day is also ideal for photography, and it has become a popular spot where many sacred site pilgrims position their cameras.
The Atmosphere of the Grounds: Silence and Sacredness
The grounds are surrounded by Hida’s rich nature and are enveloped in a quiet, sacred space. Away from the bustle of the city, it is a place where one can calm the mind, cherished not only by local people but also by tourists.
The shrine building displays traditional wooden architecture, and you can feel the techniques of Hida craftsmen in its beautiful construction. When visiting to pay respects, please also pay attention to this architectural beauty.
Seasonal Expressions: Beauty Through the Seasons
Keta Wakamiya Shrine presents different faces throughout the seasons.
Spring: Cherry blossoms and new greenery color the grounds, allowing you to enjoy landscape full of vitality.
Summer: Enveloped in deep green, a cool atmosphere pervades.
Autumn: The autumn leaves are beautiful, and trees colored in red and yellow adorn the shrine. The best time to view is from late October to early November.
Winter: A shrine blanketed in snow is truly fantastical and beautiful, like a scene from the film.
No matter which season you visit, you will discover its unique charm.
How to Access Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Access by Train and Bus
Nearest Station: JR Takayama Main Line “Hida Furukawa Station”
The distance from Hida Furukawa Station to Keta Wakamiya Shrine is approximately 3.5 km.
On Foot: Approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour
By Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes (fare around 1,500 yen)
Rental Bicycle: There are rental bicycle services around Hida Furukawa Station, and you can reach the shrine in approximately 15–20 minutes by bicycle. This is recommended as you can enjoy the Hida scenery while traveling.
Access by Car and Parking Information
From the Nagoya Direction:
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Hida Kiyomi IC” on the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
From the Toyama Direction:
- Approximately 30 minutes from “Hida Kiyomi IC” via the Hokuriku and Tokai-Hokuriku Expressways
Parking: There is a small parking space near the shrine, but as the number of spaces is limited, during busy times it is recommended to use parking lots around Hida Furukawa Station and visit on foot or by rental bicycle.
Travel Time from Major Cities
- From Tokyo: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes transferring between Shinkansen and limited express trains
- From Nagoya: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes on the limited express Wideview Hida
- From Osaka: Approximately 4 hours transferring between Shinkansen and limited express trains
- From Kanazawa: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes on limited express trains
Proper Conduct When Visiting and Precautions
Basic Etiquette for Visiting a Shrine
When visiting a shrine, please observe the following basic manners.
- Bow Before Passing Through the Torii Gate: This is a courtesy before entering the sacred grounds.
- Avoid Walking Down the Center of the Approach Path: The center is considered the path of the kami.
- Purify Yourself at the Water Basin: Rinse your left hand, right hand, and mouth in that order.
- Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow: This is the basic ritual of worship performed before the main shrine building.
- Worship Quietly: Do not forget that this is a sacred place.
Points to Note for Sacred Site Pilgrims
While many fans of “Your Name.” visit Keta Wakamiya Shrine as a sacred site, it is also a place of faith for local people. Please pay particular attention to the following points.
- Keep Photography Modest: Photography within the grounds is permitted, but please be considerate not to disturb other worshippers.
- Avoid Loud Conversations: It is important to maintain the silence.
- Always Take Your Trash With You: Please cooperate to preserve the beautiful environment.
- Do Not Enter Private Property: There are also residences around the shrine.
- Refrain From Visiting Early Morning or Late Evening: Out of consideration for nearby residents, please visit during reasonable hours.
Information on Oshuin (Shrine Stamps) and Amulets
You can receive an oshuin (shrine stamp) at Keta Wakamiya Shrine. However, as there may not always be a priest in residence, it is recommended to confirm in advance.
Amulets and prayer tablets are also distributed, and amulets for matchmaking are particularly popular. As a charm for connecting “bonds” (en), which overlaps with the theme of “Your Name.,” many fans seek them out.
Other Sacred Site Pilgrimage Spots in Hida Furukawa
After visiting Keta Wakamiya Shrine, try exploring other “Your Name.” related spots within Hida Furukawa City.
Hida Furukawa Station
The station appears in the film as the station where Taki arrives at the beginning. The station building and the view from the overpass are exactly as the work depicts.
Hida City Library
This is the model for the library where Taki researches information about Itomori Town. It is characterized by modern architecture, and the interior is open to viewing.
Townscape Along the Miyagawa River
This beautiful townscape, known as the white-walled warehouse district, was also used as a backdrop for the film. The scenery of old machiya (traditional wooden houses) lined up allows you to fully appreciate the charm of Hida Furukawa.
Hida Furukawa Festival Hall
Though not directly featured in the film, it is a facility where you can learn about the traditional culture of Hida Furukawa. Kumihimo (traditional cord-weaving) experiences are also available, and you can deepen your understanding of the world of “Your Name.”
Recommended Tourist Attractions in the Surrounding Area
Within Hida City (Approximately 30 minutes by car)
Old Town District: A beautiful townscape designated as an Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings.
Takayama Jinya: A magistrate’s office from the Edo period with historically valuable architecture.
Morning Market: The Miyagawa Morning Market and Jinya-mae Morning Market are famous for their fresh local produce and crafts.
Shirakawa-go (Approximately 1 hour by car)
A gassho-zukuri farmhouse village registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A precious place where you can experience Japan’s original landscape.
Shin-Hotaka Ropeway (Approximately 1 hour by car)
From an observation deck at an elevation of 2,156 meters, enjoy spectacular views of the Northern Alps in a 360-degree panorama.
Hida-no-Sato (Within Hida City)
An open-air museum featuring gassho-zukuri and other traditional Hida folk houses relocated from throughout the region. You can also observe demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Hida Furukawa Dining and Accommodation Information
Enjoy Hida Beef
When visiting the Hida region, be sure to taste Hida beef. Around Hida Furukawa Station, there are many restaurants where you can enjoy Hida beef in various forms including steak, grilled meat, sushi, and croquettes.
Local Sake and Regional Cuisine
Hida is also famous as a sake-producing region. You can enjoy renowned sake such as Hourai and Shiramayu together with regional dishes like magnolia leaf miso and marinated beef steak.
Accommodation Facilities
Inns and Minshuku: Hida Furukawa has scattered inns and minshuku known for their warm hospitality.
Hotels: Around Hida Furukawa Station and within Hida City, there are numerous options ranging from business hotels to luxury hotels.
Guest Houses: An increasing number of reasonably priced guest houses are available, where you can also enjoy exchanges with fellow travelers.
To fully enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage, it is recommended to stay in Hida Furukawa and visit the shrine during the quiet early morning hours.
How to Enjoy “Your Name.” Sacred Site Pilgrimage
Recreate Famous Scenes from the Work
When you visit Keta Wakamiya Shrine, recall famous scenes from the film and try taking photos from the same angles. This will deepen your appreciation of the work while creating wonderful memories.
Use the Sacred Site Pilgrimage Map
By using a sacred site pilgrimage map provided by the Hida City Tourism Association and others, you can visit multiple spots efficiently. You can obtain one at the tourist information center at Hida Furukawa Station.
Interaction with Local People
The people of Hida Furukawa are warm and welcome tourists. Through conversations with local residents, you may discover attractions of Hida that are not depicted in the film.
Sharing Information on Social Media
It is also fun to share your experience using hashtags such as “#KimiNoNawaSeisekiJunrei” and “#KetagiwakamiyaShrine” on Instagram, Twitter, and other platforms. Posts from other fans are also helpful references.
Best Seasons to Visit and Event Information
Recommended Times
Spring (April–May): Fresh greenery is beautiful, and the climate is pleasant. Golden Week may see increased crowds.
Autumn (October–November): Autumn foliage reaches its peak, offering the most beautiful scenery. Early November is especially recommended.
Winter (December–February): Snow-covered landscapes are fantastical, but be cautious about traffic disruptions due to snow. Prepare thoroughly for cold weather.
Summer (June–August): Deep green surrounds you, and Hida’s cool climate is ideal for escaping the heat. However, rain gear is essential during the rainy season.
Major Events in Hida Furukawa
Furukawa Festival (April 19–20): A traditional festival registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The okoshi-daiko drums and float processions are highlights.
Santera Mairi (January 15): A traditional event known as a winter tradition. The glow of candles in the snowy landscape is fantastical.
Practical Advice for Visiting Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Checklist of Items to Bring
- Camera and Smartphone: Essential for recording memories.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Sneakers are recommended for climbing stone steps.
- Beverages: Water intake is especially important in summer.
- Rain Gear: A compact umbrella is reassuring as weather changes easily in the mountainous area.
- Warm Clothing: A thick coat and gloves are necessary in winter.
- Oshuin Notebook: Bring one if you collect shrine stamps.
Estimated Time Needed
- Keta Wakamiya Shrine Only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Sacred Site Pilgrimage Within Hida Furukawa: Half day to full day
- Trip Including Surrounding Sightseeing: 1 night 2 days to 2 nights 3 days
By planning with plenty of time, you can enjoy the sacred site pilgrimage at a leisurely pace.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
- Weekday Visits: Weekends and holidays tend to be crowded, so weekdays are recommended if possible.
- Early Morning Visits: Visiting around 8 a.m. allows you to pay respects in a quiet atmosphere.
- Off-Season Travel: Avoiding spring break, Golden Week, summer vacation, and autumn foliage season keeps crowds relatively low.
Deepening Your Understanding of “Your Name.”‘s World
Kumihimo (Cord-Weaving) Experience
At Hida Furukawa Festival Hall and nearby workshops, you can experience making kumihimo as depicted in the film. Creating the cord-weaving that Mitsuha was making with your own hands deepens your understanding of the work.
Learning About Hida’s History and Culture
“Your Name.” incorporates many elements of Japanese traditional culture and Shinto beliefs. Learning about Hida’s history and culture allows for deeper understanding of the film’s themes.
Comparing Other Works by Director Makoto Shinkai
Watching other works by director Makoto Shinkai (such as “5 Centimeters per Second,” “The Garden of Words,” “Weathering with You,” etc.) deepens your understanding of the director’s cinematic world, making the sacred site pilgrimage even more fulfilling.
Conclusion: Experience the World of “Your Name.” at Keta Wakamiya Shrine
Keta Wakamiya Shrine in Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, stands as a sacred site of “Your Name.,” a precious place where you can experience the world of the film. Nestled quietly in a remote mountain valley, the shrine possesses beauty that is exactly as depicted in the movie, continuing to captivate all who visit.
Through sacred site pilgrimage, you can not only deepen your love for the film but also enjoy Hida’s abundant nature, history, culture, and cuisine. Please observe proper conduct when visiting and remember to be considerate of local residents as you create wonderful memories.
For fans of “Your Name.,” Keta Wakamiya Shrine is a place you should visit at least once. Why not visit Hida Furukawa and experience the moving emotions of the film once again? The landscapes you saw on screen will surely unfold before your eyes, becoming a special experience.
Enjoy a sacred site pilgrimage that will stay in your heart, where Hida’s beautiful nature and traditional culture merge with the world of “Your Name.” at Keta Wakamiya Shrine.
