Must-Visit Spiritual Destinations: 4 Powerful Spots in Gunma You Should Explore at Least Once

As spring approaches, many people feel the urge to recharge their inner energy and welcome new opportunities. One great way to do this is by visiting power spots—places believed to attract positive energy and good fortune. These spots can help you draw unexpected luck into your life. Did you know that Gunma is home to numerous remarkable power spots?
In this guide, we’ve carefully selected four of the best power spots in Gunma that you simply must visit at least once in your lifetime. Join us as we explore these spiritually uplifting destinations and make the most of your journey to recharge your mind, body, and soul.

1. Daikoin Temple: A Sacred Site for Child-Rearing and Safe Childbirth Prayers

Daikoin Temple, a beloved destination for prayers related to child-rearing and safe childbirth, holds a deep cultural and spiritual significance in Gunma Prefecture. Established in 1613, it was originally built to enshrine Nitta Yoshishige, an ancestor of the Tokugawa Ieyasu family. Visitors are often captivated by its exquisitely crafted Sanmon Gate and the temple’s impressive deep moat, which create a serene yet awe-inspiring atmosphere.
The temple’s first chief priest, Saint Donryu, was known for his compassion toward the poor. He devoted his life to rescuing those in need, even taking in children from impoverished families and raising them as his disciples.
This temple is considered a power spot for blessings related to children. The love, dedication, and benevolent acts of Saint Donryu have inspired countless visitors to come and pray for their children’s health, safety, and happiness. When visiting Gunma, a stop at Daikoin Temple is highly recommended for those seeking spiritual support for family well-being.

2. Mantokuji Temple: Japan’s Famous “Enkiri” (Severing Bad Ties) Temple

Mantokuji Temple is widely recognized as Japan’s most famous “enkiri-dera”, or temple for severing bad relationships and misfortunes. Many people visit here to cut ties with negativity—whether it be toxic relationships, bad habits, or unfavorable circumstances.
A large number of visitors are women seeking divorce, especially those facing difficulty in the process. Interestingly, Mantokuji served as a filming location for the movie Kakekomi Onna to Kakedashi Otoko.
The temple’s unique prayer ritual involves making a wish at black-and-white toilets, a symbolic act called “Enkiri Toi”. This unusual practice is believed to spiritually cut off harmful connections.
While “cutting ties” may sound negative, it can actually open the door to new opportunities. By freeing yourself from harmful bonds, you make space for better luck, positive people, and fresh beginnings. It takes courage to move forward, but sometimes it’s necessary to step away from repetitive cycles and embrace a brighter path.

3. Ikaho Shrine: Blessings for Fertility, Safe Childbirth, and Good Fortune

Ikaho Shrine is one of Japan’s most beloved power spots, famous for granting blessings in matchmaking, fertility, and safe childbirth. Many women visit daily to pray for a healthy pregnancy, and it is common to see worshippers dedicating wooden prayer plaques (ema) with heartfelt wishes. Visitors hope for the joy of welcoming a strong, healthy baby into their family.
Aside from fertility blessings, Ikaho Shrine is also known as a place to pray for financial prosperity. The shrine features an impressive 365-step stone staircase, and legend says that successfully climbing to the top can bring increased luck and wealth. For couples hoping to conceive, this sacred site offers a chance to pray for children—and there are real stories of people who received this blessing after their visit.

4. Akagi Shrine: Nature’s Power Spot in Gunma

Perched at the summit of Mount Akagi, Akagi Shrine is one of Gunma’s most renowned spiritual destinations. To reach it, start your journey by car up the scenic slopes of Mount Akagi, where you’ll soon spot the striking vermilion shrine buildings. This sacred site is the head shrine among more than 300 branch shrines across Japan, and it stands proudly along the shores of Lake Onuma, a picturesque setting that adds to its mystical allure.
Visitors are encouraged to stroll around Lake Onuma after exploring the shrine. Since ancient times, this area has been revered as a sacred ground dedicated to deities of nature. As a true power spot, Akagi Shrine is believed to channel the pure energy of its natural surroundings, making it an ideal place to refresh your spirit and find inner clarity.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced four must-visit power spots in Gunma, with Akagi Shrine standing out for its deep spiritual connection to nature. Everyone faces worries in life, and visiting a place like this can help you reset your mind and gather strength for the days ahead. May your journey be filled with peace and revitalizing energy.