湯澤神社
9310 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen Village, Shimotakai District
Located near the central public bath "Oyu" in Nozawa Onsen, the Yuzawa Shrine stands close to "Ogama," a popular spot known as the "kitchen of Nozawa Onsen." The hot spring reaches around 90 degrees Celsius, and its steam can be seen even in winter. The shrine, named after the hot springs, hints at the village's deep-rooted culture around hot water. Behind the shrine is Kenmei-ji Temple, suggesting that the shrine may have originally been part of the temple grounds.
After passing through the Ryobu torii gate and climbing the stone steps, you will find an Irimoya-zukuri style worship hall. Behind it is an enclosure housing the main hall. The impressive carvings on the building include phoenixes on the frog-leg struts, dragons on the main beams, and various woodcarvings on the wooden noses.
The carvings are only notable from the front, with no decorations on the back. The main hall, built in the mid-Edo period, is designated as a village cultural asset but is not visible from the outside as it is housed within an enclosure.
| Location | 9310 Toyosato, Nozawaonsen Village, Shimotakai District |
|---|---|
| Website | None |
| Deity | Suwa Daimyojin |
| Main Hall | Village-designated cultural asset Mid-Edo period |
| Architectural Style | One-bay Nagare-zukuri, Shingle roof |