In the film Your Name, one of the most memorable moments is when Taki searches for Mitsuha in the Hida region. The real-life model of the shrine in this scene is Keta Wakamiya Shrine in Gifu. Visiting this place allows fans to step directly into the world of the movie while also experiencing the rich history and spirituality of the region.
What is Keta Wakamiya Shrine?
Keta Wakamiya Shrine is a historic shrine located in Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, and has been deeply worshipped by the local people for centuries. Its enshrined deity is Ōnamuchi no Mikoto, a god known for blessings of matchmaking, family safety, and agricultural prosperity.
The shrine grounds are surrounded by tall trees, and walking along its approach path, one is enveloped in a serene atmosphere. Offering prayers here brings a sense of calm, making the act of worship itself a moment of healing.
Every year, traditional festivals are held, featuring lion dances and portable shrines, creating opportunities for visitors to experience the cultural heritage of Hida. For locals, the shrine is an inseparable part of life, while for travelers it offers a unique window into regional tradition.
Connection with the Film Your Name
In Makoto Shinkai’s Your Name, there is a scene where the protagonist, Taki, visits the Hida region to look for Mitsuha. The model for the shrine shown in the background is Keta Wakamiya Shrine.
The film’s depiction of torii gates, stone steps, and the approach path closely resembles the real location. Fans visiting the shrine can relive the atmosphere of the film’s memorable sequence. As a result, the shrine has become a popular pilgrimage spot for fans, who often recreate scenes and take photos that mirror the movie.
By visiting this place, fans can stand in the same landscape as the characters and experience the unique overlap of fiction and reality.
Highlights of the Shrine
Keta Wakamiya Shrine offers a beautiful blend of architecture and natural surroundings, which change with the seasons.
- Spring – cherry blossoms brighten the shrine’s approach
- Summer – deep greenery creates a refreshing atmosphere
- Autumn – vibrant red and gold leaves transform the grounds
- Winter – snow blankets the shrine in mystical silence
Among these, the autumn foliage and winter snowscape are particularly popular with both movie fans and general tourists.
Seasonal Highlights
| Season | Features | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Cherry blossoms | Bright and festive |
| Summer | Lush greenery | Refreshing and cool |
| Autumn | Colored leaves | Brilliant and dreamlike |
| Winter | Snowy scenery | Quiet and mystical |
Access and Basic Information
Keta Wakamiya Shrine is conveniently located about ten minutes on foot from Hida-Furukawa Station, making it easy to visit for sightseeing.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Furukawa Town, Hida City, Gifu |
| Nearest Station | JR Hida-Furukawa Station |
| Walking Time | About ten minutes |
| Main Blessings | Matchmaking, family safety, traffic safety, prosperity of descendants |
While visiting the shrine, exploring the old streets of Furukawa is highly recommended. Traditional sake breweries and preserved merchant houses line the town, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of Hida.
Festivals and Traditions
For locals, Keta Wakamiya Shrine is a spiritual center. During festival seasons, it becomes vibrant with processions and traditional performances. Visitors can also enjoy these events as an opportunity to experience regional culture.
Main Festivals
| Festival | Season | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Spring Festival | April | Portable shrine processions and ritual dances |
| Summer Festival | July | Children’s parades and local celebrations |
| Autumn Festival | October | Prayers for agricultural prosperity |
| Winter Event | December | Rituals to welcome the New Year |
The spring festival in particular is colorful and attracts many travelers.
How to Enjoy the Pilgrimage
For movie fans, the best way to enjoy a visit is to compare the scenery of the shrine with the scenes from Your Name. Walking along the paths while recalling the film creates a sense of stepping into the world of the story.
After praying, visitors can collect shrine stamps (goshuin) as a keepsake or purchase local sweets and crafts available nearby. Many fans take photos and share them online, making the experience part of their personal connection with the movie.
Suggested Sightseeing Course Around Furukawa
To fully enjoy the experience, it’s best to combine the shrine visit with other attractions in Furukawa. Below is a model course for both movie fans and general tourists.
| Time of Day | Destination | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | Keta Wakamiya Shrine | Recreate the film’s iconic scene |
| Noon | Furukawa Old Town | Visit sake breweries and white-walled storehouses |
| Afternoon | Hida City Museum | Learn about local culture and art |
| Evening | Miyagawa Riverside | Enjoy scenic riverside views |
| Night | Local Restaurant | Taste Hida beef and regional cuisine |
By following this plan, visitors can enjoy both the film’s atmosphere and Hida’s traditions in a single trip.
Conclusion
Keta Wakamiya Shrine is the real-life model of the shrine in Your Name where Taki searches for Mitsuha. As both a historic religious site and a beloved anime pilgrimage destination, it offers dual significance.
Combined with the old townscape of Furukawa, traditional festivals, and local cultural experiences, it provides a fulfilling journey for movie fans and travelers alike. Each visitor can find their own unique way to enjoy this sacred spot, making it a must-visit location in the Hida region.
