Iwaki-san Shrine begins major preservation repairs

Iwaki-san Shrine in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture, is beginning a major preservation and repair project for its structures, which are designated as important national cultural properties. The project is an eight-year plan aimed at preparing for the shrine's 1,250th anniversary in 2030. Repairs will cover the worship hall, gate, and other structures, marking the first major dismantling and repair of the worship hall and gate since 1914.

Due to the construction, access routes and visitor paths within the shrine grounds will be partially altered. While religious services and festivals will continue, certain areas around the worship hall will be restricted. A temporary worship hall will be established near the gate starting in November.

Concurrently, the region is observing the Oyamasankei festival, a significant intangible folk cultural property. Participants gather at the shrine to pray for bountiful harvests and family safety, performing traditional chants and music.