Located in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Kawaji Suwa Jinja is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami (spirit) of Suwa-no-Okami, a powerful deity associated with rice cultivation and fertility. The shrine's architecture reflects the region's traditional Heian-period style, with a main hall featuring a curved roof and a vermilion torii gate. Visitors can explore the surrounding forest, which is said to be the dwelling place of Suwa-no-Okami.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Suwa-no-Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Suwa-no-Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.437845, 137.8093578
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's scenic beauty, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the golden light of sunset.
Cultural notes
As a site of worship for Suwa-no-Okami, Kawaji Suwa Jinja is also celebrated during the annual Suwa Matsuri festival, which honors the deity's power over rice crops. The shrine's forest surroundings are home to numerous ancient trees and shrubs, believed to possess sacred energy.
Historical note
The shrine was established in the 8th century during the Nara period.