Located in the Japanese prefecture of Nagano, Sarashina Shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity En no Gyōmei, a legendary prince from the Nara period known for his bravery and wisdom. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a traditional Heian-style torii gate and a wooden hall dating back to the Edo period. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine's gardens and enjoy the seasonal changing of the leaves during autumn.
- Religion
- shinto
- Coordinates
- 36.4873422, 138.1418636
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's gardens, visit during the autumn foliage season and take a stroll along the winding path to discover the various types of maple trees on display.
Cultural notes
En no Gyōmei is also associated with the legend of the 'Three Heroes,' who were said to have defeated three invading armies. The shrine's annual festival, held in October, features traditional performances and games inspired by this mythological story.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in the Edo period (1603-1868) during the rule of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was known to have visited the site.