Hanafushi Shrine

Hanabushi Shrine, a Shikinaisha ranked Myojin-taisha in the Engishiki, stands on Mount Tarumizu at the eastern tip of the Shichigahama Peninsula, marking the boundary between Matsushima Bay and Sendai Bay. Tradition holds that the shrine was established in 630. Originally located at Hoga-saki promontory near the Hanafuchi Lighthouse, it was relocated to its present site in 770 after repeated storm damage. In 844 the court granted it the divine rank of junior fifth grade, recognizing its spiritual power. For over a millennium seafarers sailing the Sanriku coast have offered prayers here for safe passage.