Akibayashi Shrine, located in the heart of Utsunomiya city in Tochigi prefecture, is dedicated to the Shinto god of harvests and fertility. This shrine is one of Japan's oldest and most historically significant shrines, with a rich cultural heritage. Akibayashi Shrine was originally built in 718 AD during the Nara period as a palace temple for the Fujiwara clan, and it has been rebuilt several times since then.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Okuninushi no Kamitsume
- Kami enshrined
- Okuninushi no Kamitsume
- Coordinates
- 38.9124156, 139.8426883
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's main hall on March 3rd, 4th or 5th (Spring Equinox), and take a photo with a traditional sake barrel for good luck.
Cultural notes
Akibayashi Shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and its association with the mythological figure of Okuninushi no Kamitsume, a Shinto god of agriculture and harvests. The shrine also hosts an annual Matsuri festival in October to celebrate the harvest season.
Historical note
The shrine was relocated to its current location in 1927.