Early Industry Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Agematsu, Nagano Prefecture. Dedicated to the deities of rice and industry, it is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan. The shrine's architecture reflects the Edo period style, with a five-story pagoda and an impressive gatehouse.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Sugawara no Michizane
- Kami enshrined
- Sugawara no Michizane, Other kami
- Coordinates
- 35.3212406, 137.8119011
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture stunning golden hour photos.
Cultural notes
This shrine is associated with the mythology of Sugawara no Michizane, a legendary scholar and politician who was said to have helped establish the shrine. The shrine is also famous for its rice-related festivals, which take place in April and May to celebrate the new harvest season.
Historical note
Founded during the Heian period (794-1185), Early Industry Shrine has been a vital source of spiritual guidance for local farmers.