Futamata Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kesennuma, Miyagi Prefecture. The name 'Futamata' refers to its unique feature of having two bridges crossing the nearby Futamata River, which is said to be a sacred site. According to local legend, the shrine was built on the site where a kami appeared to a local resident, who then became a priest and brought the deity back to the village. The shrine's architecture reflects the regional Kamakura style, with a tiled roof and wooden beams. Visitors can explore the shrine's halls and grounds, which are said to be inhabited by various kami including Futamata no kami, Takehisa no kami, and others.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Futamata no kami
- Kami enshrined
- Futamata no kami, Takehisa no kami
- Coordinates
- 38.5021179, 141.316768
Visitor tip
Visitors can take a stroll across one of the two bridges to purify themselves before entering the shrine.
Cultural notes
Futamata Jinja is known for its connections to the local legend of Futamata no kuni no kami, a deity said to have appeared in the area and brought prosperity to the region. During the Obon festival, locals perform rituals at the shrine to honor their ancestors.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in the Edo period (1603-1867),