Kuwana Sōja

Kuwana Sōja is the principal tutelary shrine of Kuwana, deeply beloved by the people of the region since ancient times. Enshrining the Four Great Kami of Kasuga, it has walked through history alongside the development of Kuwana. During the Edo period, it received the deep reverence of the Kuwana domain lord and served as an important spiritual support for the castle town of Kuwana. The Kuwana Ishitori Festival held every autumn is famous as "Japan's noisiest festival," and its vibrancy expresses the spirit of Kuwana's people. Located in the town center, it continues to be cherished by many as an important place for deepening community bonds.