Located in the city of Katusawa, Gunma Prefecture, Species Pond Shrine is dedicated to the god of fishing and agriculture, Ryujin, as well as Sugawara no Michizane, a notable figure from Japanese history. The shrine's name reflects its proximity to a pond where locals would go to pray for good fishing luck.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryujin, Sugawara no Michizane
- Kami enshrined
- Ryujin, Sugawara no Michizane
- Coordinates
- 36.1943376, 139.1297482
Visitor tip
To experience the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not too high, and take a walk around the pond.
Cultural notes
Species Pond Shrine is known for its unique 'tengu-do' entrance, which features a stone carving of a tengu, a mythical creature with human and bird-like characteristics. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in September to honor Ryujin, where visitors can participate in traditional games and try their luck at fishing.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1709 during the Edo period.