Located in the city of Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Kompira Shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines, dedicated to the god Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a key figure in Japanese mythology. The shrine is notable for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture, which reflect the Heian period's aesthetic values.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 36.1137544, 140.0754165
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's historic charm, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the gardens are bathed in soft light and the streets are less crowded.
Cultural notes
Kompira Shrine is closely associated with the legendary hero Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who was said to have defeated a serpent-like dragon known as Ryujin. The shrine's iconic statue of Susanoo-no-Mikoto is adorned with intricate designs that symbolize his bravery and power.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 767 CE during the Nara period as a temple, but it was later converted to a Shinto shrine in the Kamakura period.