Achi Jinja Okumiya, located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, is a remote Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami Araki no Okami and Komichi no Kami, often referred to as a sub-shrine of the more prominent Achi Shrine. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Jomon period (14,000-300 BCE). The shrine's architecture is typical of the Japanese mountainous regions, featuring a simple yet elegant design that blends into its natural surroundings.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Araki no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Araki no Okami, Komichi no Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.4639228, 137.7039858
Visitor tip
For those visiting, be sure to take a short hike through the surrounding forest to reach the shrine's scenic altar and enjoy the serene mountain views.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the mythology of the Achi Valley, where legend has it that the kami Araki no Okami was born from the tears of a local princess. The shrine also hosts an annual autumn festival in honor of Komichi no Kami, featuring traditional games and local specialties.
Historical note
The shrine was originally part of a larger shrine complex in Achi Village, but following the Meiji Restoration, it became an independent shrine and took on its current name Okumiya.