Japan Mitsumine Shrine Heavy Snow Isolation: 130 Trapped Overnight

130 people found themselves spending an unplanned night in a mountaintop shrine after heavy snowfall effectively turned the historic site into an emergency shelter. Roads around the area were shut down due to severe safety concerns.

Inside the Japan Mitsumine Shrine Heavy Snow Isolation

According to public broadcaster NHK, visitors in approximately 50 cars were forced to shelter in the halls and lobbies of the Mitsumine Shrine in Saitama prefecture on Friday night. The local government confirmed that despite the freezing conditions, no illnesses or medical emergencies were reported among the occupants.

Japan is currently battling a fierce cold front. Data from the Japan Meteorological Agency shows that some regions have seen up to 80cm of snow over the past 72 hours. Near the shrine, situated 1,110m above sea level, temperatures plummeted to -15C, creating treacherous icy conditions that led to multiple vehicle accidents before the roads were closed.

A Spiritual Sanctuary in a Crisis

Located near the city of Chichibu, Mitsumine Shrine isn't just a scenic spot—it's a site of immense historical significance. Dedicated to the divine couple Izanami and Izanagi, it's said to have been founded in the 1st Century by Prince Yamato Takeru. For those trapped, the shrine’s ancient halls provided a literal and figurative refuge from the storm.