Located in Hyogo Prefecture, Snake Cave Shrine is a Shinto temple dedicated to the kami of snakes and the underworld. Its name, 'Snake Cave' (hebi no ana), refers to the site's unique feature: a network of caves carved into the living rock on which the shrine stands. According to local legend, the shrine was built during the Heian period as an act of devotion by the imperial family for their snake offerings to the underworld kami, Ryujin.
- 宗教
- shinto
- 祭神
- Ryujin
- 祀られている神
- Ryujin, Ningyo no Okami, Tsurugino O-no-mikoto
- 座標
- 34.9163129, 134.7406209
参拝のヒント
To appreciate the shrine's unique geological features, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when possible, and carefully navigate the narrow cave paths before entering the main shrine area.
文化的背景
Snake Cave Shrine is associated with the Ryujin, a powerful underwater deity revered for its ability to control the oceans. During the New Year's (Oshogatsu) festival, locals bring offerings of snake-shaped sweets and other symbols of good luck to ensure a prosperous year.
歴史
Built during the Heian period (794-1185 CE)