Yu Shrine, a small shrine in Matsuyama Dogo Onsen

#JapanGuide **Yujinsha (湯神社)**, quietly located near Matsuyama Dogo Onsen, is a small shrine, but it is a meaningful place that worships the hidden guardian deity of the hot spring town. ⸻ 🌸 Introduction and Origin of Yujinsha • Location: 4-4-10 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, 1-2 minutes on foot from Dogo Onsen Main Building  • History: It is said that the hot spring water of Dogo Onsen once ran out, but after a prayer was offered at Yujinsha, the hot spring water began to flow again. This ritual has continued to this day. • Object of Worship: The guardian deity of hot springs, and you can pray for good luck, fire prevention, abundant crops, and prosperity in business.  ⸻ ⏰ Operation Information • Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., open year-round  • Admission: Free • Time required: If you include it in your Dogo Onsen Village exploration route, it's easy to see in about 10 minutes  ⸻ 🎊 Festivals & Events • Hatsune Festival (Hatsune Festival): Every year on the second Sunday of January (Coming of Age Day), a traditional festival to pray for a good harvest, prosperous business, and family safety • Various events such as amulet burning, rice cake pounding, and footbath experiences are held  • Yugido Festival (湯祈祷祭): Held during the Dogo Onsen Festival from March 19 to 21, this is a prayer ceremony to commemorate the reopening of the hot springs after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 1707.  ⸻ 🧭 Visiting Tips 1. Dogomura Meguri Stamp: This is a certification spot for the Dogomura Meguri, one of the Dogo Onsen Village walking tour routes. If you have a stamp book, be sure to stamp it.  2. Viewing Point: It is located on a small hill, so you can see the Dogo Onsen Street and the main building at a glance. It is also a good place to take pictures.