Yu Jinja Shrine: Meet the Guardian of Dogo Onsen Just 3 Minutes from the Main Bathhouse

A Sacred Place of Prayer Nestled Quietly Beside Dogo Onsen Honkan

When people think of Dogo Onsen, its historic main bathhouse and bustling hot spring town often come to mind. But did you know there’s a small, quiet shrine just a short walk from the Honkan? That’s Yu Jinja Shrine—a place where the guardian deity of the hot springs is enshrined, preserving the long-standing relationship between the people of Dogo and their cherished waters.

Yu Jinja Shrine｜Guardian of the Hot Springs, Honoring the Blessings of Dogo

Just a short distance from Dogo Onsen Honkan, Yu Jinja Shrine sits on a small hill overlooking the hot spring town. As its name suggests, this rare shrine is dedicated specifically to “yu,” or hot spring water.

For centuries, this shrine has honored the sacredness of the hot springs, with rituals and prayers offered to the source of the healing waters. It’s deeply connected to the very identity of Dogo Onsen and stands as a symbol of the “Town of Hot Springs.”

For visitors, it’s a quiet space to express gratitude for the blessings of the hot springs—a tranquil sanctuary to recenter and reflect. Yu Jinja Shrine truly embodies the role of Dogo Onsen’s guardian spirit.

What the Name “Yu Jinja” Tells Us

The name “Yu Jinja” literally means “Shrine of the Hot Spring Deity.” Among the many shrines across Japan, it’s rare to find one with such a direct reference to onsen.

The enshrined deities are Okuninushi no Mikoto and Sukunahikona no Mikoto—two gods from Japanese mythology closely tied to the origin of Dogo Onsen.

According to legend, when these deities visited the Iyo region, Sukunahikona no Mikoto fell ill. Okuninushi no Mikoto guided him to a hot spring, and upon bathing in it, he was restored to health and danced with joy.

These ancient stories reflect how deeply the local people have long appreciated the blessings of the hot springs and lived in harmony with nature’s power.

It’s also said that when earthquakes once halted the spring’s flow, locals offered sacred dances (kagura) at Yu Jinja Shrine to pray for its return.

Meet the Hot Spring Deity Just 3 Minutes from the Honkan

Yu Jinja Shrine is located on the slope of Kanmuriyama, right next to the Dogo Onsen Honkan. It’s only about a 3-minute walk, making it extremely accessible. Nestled slightly away from the hustle of the hot spring town, the shrine offers a peaceful detour that’s easy to visit.

Nearby, you’ll also find Sorano Sanpomichi (Sky Promenade), a scenic walkway perched on a hill, and Nakajima Shrine, dedicated to the deity of sweets. Together, these form a pleasant mini walking route.

A Perfect Short Detour: Explore Dogo in Just 20 Minutes

Right next to Yu Jinja Shrine are Nakajima Shrine, honoring the deity of confections, and Sorano Sanpomichi, a hilltop footbath spot with panoramic views of Dogo. Both are within a one-minute walk of Yu Jinja. These small attractions are tightly clustered, perfect for a quick but fulfilling detour.

For example, you can pay your respects at Yu Jinja, visit Nakajima Shrine, and then enjoy a relaxing soak in the footbath while admiring the town from Sorano Sanpomichi. The entire route takes about 20 minutes, making it a great way to enrich your Dogo Onsen experience.

Dogo Onsen Honkan is very popular, and at times there may be a wait to enter. This short walking route is perfect for making the most of that time.

A Small Shrine That Holds Dogo’s History and Prayers

Yu Jinja may be small, but its peaceful atmosphere and deep cultural roots offer a quiet moment of reflection right in the heart of Dogo Onsen. It’s a chance to connect with the local faith and history that live on in this sacred place.

Before soaking in the hot springs of Dogo, why not stop by Yu Jinja Shrine to offer your gratitude for the healing waters?