Tokiwa Shrine

Tokiwa Shrine honors Tokugawa Mitsukuni, the second lord of the Mito Domain, widely recognized as "Mito Komon," and Tokugawa Nariaki, the ninth lord. The shrine's origins trace back to the early Meiji era when admirers of these two lords built a small shrine within Kairakuen Garden. In 1874, the shrine was relocated to its current site, using a part of Kairakuen's grounds as the precinct.
As deities who significantly contributed to the cultural development of Mito, Mitsukuni and Nariaki are believed to bless visitors with academic success.

The spacious grounds feature several points of interest, including the Noh Stage, converted from the shrine's original Kaguraden and Shinsen-den buildings, which survived wartime air raids. The Giretsukan Museum displays artifacts associated with Mitsukuni and Nariaki. Visitors can also admire the Naniwa no Ume (Plum Tree), a favorite of both lords, which continues to bloom with seasonal beauty.
Additionally, there are three subsidiary shrines, including the Toko Shrine, dedicated to Fujita Toko, a trusted retainer of Nariaki. Visitors are encouraged to explore these as well.

The shrine's goshuin (seal) features the iconic Tokugawa family crest, the aoi mon. Unique offerings, such as pouch-shaped charms resembling Mitsukuni’s iconic inro (medicine case), are highly popular.
From February to March, the shrine becomes a vibrant hub during the Mito Plum Blossom Festival. The grounds host the National Plum Wine Festival, where around 150 varieties of plum wine from across Japan are showcased, attracting numerous visitors.