Akitsu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Higashimachi, Saitama Prefecture. Dedicated to the gods of rice and fertility, it is believed to have been established during the Nara period (710-794 CE). The shrine's primary deity is Susanoo-no-Mikoto, a powerful storm god, while its secondary deities include Inari Okami, the patron of rice and fertility, and Izanagi's sister Otohime. The shrine is renowned for its striking architecture, featuring a five-story pagoda and a beautiful garden filled with cherry blossoms and autumn maples.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Inari Okami
- Coordinates
- 35.7787186, 139.4925637
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's garden during spring to witness the breathtaking beauty of its blooming cherry blossoms, and try some local sake at the shrine's teishu-dana (sake bar) for a unique experience.
Cultural notes
In Akitsu Shrine, the festival of Mikage Matsuri is celebrated annually on May 15th, where locals honor Susanoo-no-Mikoto with offerings of rice and sake. The shrine is also famous for its special purification ritual performed during autumn, known as 'otoshidama', to ensure a bountiful harvest.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt during the Edo period (1603-1868 CE) after being destroyed in a fire.