Kawaji Jinja is a Shinto shrine located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, situated on the western shore of Lake Kawaguchi. The shrine is dedicated to the kami Kusunoki, a legendary warrior and poet from the Heian period, known for his loyalty to the Minamoto clan.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kusunoki
- Kami enshrined
- Kusunoki, Other kami
- Coordinates
- 35.4493214, 137.8098421
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's scenic views, visit at sunrise or sunset when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Cultural notes
As a minor shrine affiliated with the more famous Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha, Kawaji Jinja participates in the annual Omisoka bell-ringing ceremony on New Year's Eve, believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune for the coming year. The shrine also features traditional architecture typical of Edo period Shinto shrines, including a vermilion torii gate.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Edo period, with its current main hall built in 1874.