Located in the city of Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, Temmu Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Okuninushi no Kami, the god of rice and agriculture. The shrine's architecture is characteristic of a Shotoku-ji style temple, with a wooden torii gate and a hall with a tiled roof. It has been an important cultural site in the region for over 1,000 years.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Okuninushi no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Okuninushi no Kami
- Coordinates
- 37.609459, 138.9058832
Visitor tip
For visitors interested in trying local specialties, consider visiting during cherry blossom season or at harvest time to sample fresh rice and seasonal sweets.
Cultural notes
Temmu Shrine is associated with the legend of Okuninushi no Kami, who was said to have helped a farmer by revealing where his rice had been stolen. The shrine also hosts an annual festival in May, known as the Temmu Matsuri, which features traditional dances and rituals.
Historical note
The shrine was founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE) and is considered one of Japan's oldest shrines.