By ando 
Tokiwa jinja, located in Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is a special place where you can deeply experience Mito’s history and culture. Adjacent to Kairakuen Garden, it welcomes many visitors with its beautiful scenery.
A Jinja Shrine Dedicated to Mito Komon and Rekkō
Tokiwa jinja enshrines Tokugawa Mitsukuni (known as Mito Komon), the second lord of the Mito Domain, and Tokugawa Nariaki (known as Rekkō), the ninth lord, as its main kami. Both lords left significant marks on the development of the Mito Domain and Japanese history, and the jinja was founded in 1873 (Meiji 6) to honor their achievements. Tokugawa Mitsukuni is particularly known for initiating the compilation of “Dai Nihonshi” (The Great History of Japan) and promoting scholarship, while Tokugawa Nariaki is famous for carrying out domain reforms and establishing Kairakuen Garden.
A Deep Connection with Kairakuen Garden
Tokiwa jinja is located within the grounds of Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens. Kairakuen Garden was established by Tokugawa Nariaki with the motto “to enjoy together with the people,” a spirit that resonates within Tokiwa jinja as well. Its charm lies in being an integral part of Kairakuen Garden, famous for its plum blossoms, allowing visitors to worship amidst beautiful nature throughout the seasons. Especially in spring, when plum blossoms are in full bloom, it bustles with many people.
Highlights: Giretsukan Museum and Historical Materials
Within the jinja grounds, you’ll find the “Giretsukan Museum,” which exhibits items associated with Tokugawa Mitsukuni and Tokugawa Nariaki, as well as valuable historical materials related to the Mito Domain. It houses artifacts such as armor believed to have been used by Mitsukuni and swords favored by Nariaki, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the history and culture of the Mito Domain. It is truly an irresistible spot for history enthusiasts.
Little-Known Episodes: The Footprints of Mito Komon
Tokugawa Mitsukuni, beloved as “Mito Komon” for his personality and achievements, is widely known through legends that depict him traveling throughout Japan, observing the lives of common people. The Mitsukuni enshrined at Tokiwa jinja is precisely the person who served as the model for “Mito Komon,” and by visiting, you can connect with his enduring legacy. Furthermore, an anecdote recounts that when Nariaki established Kairakuen Garden, he opened it to the local populace, allowing everyone, regardless of social status, to enjoy it. This reveals his enlightened philosophy.
Tokiwa jinja is a place where Mito’s history and culture, along with the spirit of great predecessors, come alive. Why not combine your visit with a stroll through Kairakuen Garden? It is sure to be a memorable experience.
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