Tarobogu Shrine is the common name for Aga Shrine, located about 350 meters above sea level on the slopes of Mount Tarobo (Akagamiyama) in Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture. It is an ancient shrine with a history of over 1,200 years, and has long been affectionately known as "Tarobo-san." It is said to have various benefits, such as warding off evil, bringing good luck, prosperity in business, and recovery from illness.

Tarobogu Shrine is said to have been founded about 1,400 years ago. It is also known for being visited by military commanders and monks such as Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Prince Shotoku, and in the Edo period, it was visited by many worshippers as a "shrine of good luck."

In particular, the "Meoto Iwa Kuguri" (passing through the gap between the giant married couple rocks) is said to have the benefit of warding off evil and finding love, and many worshippers take on the challenge. Its unique topography and history as a sacred place for Shugendo create a unique and solemn atmosphere.

The approach to the shrine is made up of steep stone steps, but strangely shaped rocks and giant boulders are scattered along the way, and climbing up between them is like a training experience. At the top of the stone steps, the beautiful vermilion-painted shrine appears, with a group of giant rocks woven by the majestic nature towering in the background. In particular, the view from between the Meoto Iwa is spectacular, with a panoramic view of the Higashiomi Plain. At dusk, the sky turns crimson red, creating a fantastic scene.

There are parking lots at Tarobomiya Station, Kanda-mae, the trailhead, and the mid-mountain, all of which are free to use 24 hours a day.

[Trivia]
The gap between the Meoto Iwa is about 80 cm wide. It is said that if you pass through with good intentions, your wish will come true, but if you pass with bad intentions, you will be caught between the rocks.

[Useful points of concern]
It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to walk from the parking lot at the foot of the mountain to the main shrine.
The path begins with a gentle asphalt uphill climb, and then the entire route is made up of stone steps (742 in total). Surrounded by forest, the stone steps are uniform in width and feature handrails and rest benches at various points, allowing you to enjoy the scenery along the way. The stone steps can become slippery in rainy weather, so we recommend wearing sturdy trekking shoes or non-slip footwear.