Heiwa-ji Temple, located in Sendai City, is not the same as Kesennuma's Shiranui Shrine or Matsushima's Shiranui Shrine which also honor Ryujin (the Dragon God), but in Miyagi Prefecture, one shrine specifically honors the kami associated with the region: a kami associated with bears, the mountains and fishing. The shrine's traditional architecture reflects its role as a sacred site for local communities and is often decorated with bear-shaped wooden ornaments and fishing-themed carvings. It offers stunning views of Matsushima Bay and is also famous for its sacred spring water which is said to have healing properties.
- 宗教
- shinto
- 祭神
- Susuwatari (the Spider Kami)
- 祀られている神
- Susuwatari
- 座標
- 38.187543, 140.6663814
参拝のヒント
For visitors interested in spotting bears in their natural habitat, consider visiting the nearby Matsushima National Park and taking a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide who can help you locate and observe these majestic creatures from a safe distance.
文化的背景
The shrine's festival honors the local legend of a fisherman who was rescued by a giant bear. The festival features a traditional bear-shaped float, bear dances, and prayers for good fishing luck. The shrine is also famous for its sacred water which is believed to have healing properties and is often used in traditional medicine.
歴史
The shrine was originally established in the 7th century, making it one of the oldest Shinto shrines in the Tohoku region.