Located in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Eighteen Hands Shrine is a revered Shinto site dedicated to the benevolent deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto. As one of Japan's oldest shrines, it is believed to have been founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), making it an esteemed cultural and historical landmark. The shrine's name 'Eighteen Hands' originates from its iconic Haiden, or main hall, which features a striking eight-tiered roof resembling a hand grasping for heaven.
- 宗教
- shinto
- 祭神
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- 祀られている神
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- 座標
- 35.7227118, 140.0720696
参拝のヒント
To enhance your visit, try to arrive at dawn to witness the shrine's tranquil atmosphere and admire the hand-shaped tiled roofs, which are especially beautiful with a gentle morning mist.
文化的背景
Susanoo-no-Mikoto is often depicted as a powerful storm god associated with fertility, agriculture, and protection. At Eighteen Hands Shrine, visitors can participate in traditional festivals such as the annual Susanoo Matsuri, celebrating the deity's role as a guardian of the natural world. The shrine also offers insight into Japan's ancient architectural styles, with its wooden structures adorned with symbolic carvings and decorative motifs.
歴史
Established during the Nara period (710-794 CE),