Located in the town of Sanmin, Niigata Prefecture, Ifuki Shrine (若宮神社) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the spirit of the Japanese imperial family and the god of learning. The shrine's name, 'Ifuki,' roughly translates to 'long life' or 'prosperity.' While not as well-known as some other shrines in Japan, Ifuki Shrine remains an important cultural and historical site in the region.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- En no Gyōja
- Kami enshrined
- En no Gyōja, Kamo no Hitachi
- Coordinates
- 37.3408806, 138.5527945
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk to capture its tranquil atmosphere.
Cultural notes
This shrine is connected to the mythology of the Japanese imperial family, with its primary kami being En no Gyōja, the god of learning and wisdom. The shrine also has a strong association with the 'Long Life' (Nanaka) festival, which honors the longevity and good fortune of the imperial family.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE),