Toride’s Historic Guardian of Faith and Tradition
Yasaka Shrine, revered as the guardian shrine (ubusunagami) of Kamimachi, Nakamachi, and Katamachi in old Toride, has long been cherished by the community.
Locally known in earlier times as Gozu Tennō-sha, the shrine was founded in 1626 (Kan’ei 3) and enshrines Susanoo-no-Mikoto, the Shinto deity of storms and protection.
The worship hall (haiden), built in 1832 (Tenpō 3), bears its construction date engraved on the fittings of its corridor—evidence that work was hurried to be completed in time for the annual grand festival in June.
The present main hall (honden), designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Toride, was rebuilt in 1903 (Meiji 36) in the nagare-zukuri style and is richly decorated with elaborate carvings.
These carvings, completed in 1906 (Meiji 39), are attributed to Gotō Nuidennosuke and his son Yanosuke.
Although Nuidennosuke had passed away in 1901, Yanosuke continued the project with support from his elder brother Gotō Keirin and fellow artisans Terada Matsugorō and Takaishi Ihachirō.
On the reverse of the dragon carving at the entrance is the inscription of Terada Matsugorō, while the temporary wall of the main hall bears the name of Gotō Keirin.
Despite being a structure of the Meiji period, the honden is regarded as a shrine building of high dignity and classical style, embodying traditions reminiscent of much earlier shrine architecture.
It remains a distinguished symbol of Shinto craftsmanship, artistry, and devotion in Toride.
