New Sea Shrine, located in the town of Agematsuri, Gunma Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sea and its bounty. The shrine's name, '新海神社', roughly translates to 'New Sea God Shrine' or 'Sea God Shrine'. Its history dates back to the Heian period (794-1185 CE), during which it was a minor shrine serving the local community. Over time, it has been rebuilt and renovated several times, with notable renovations taking place in the Edo period (1603-1868 CE). Today, visitors can still see remnants of its traditional architecture, including the main hall and the sacred torii gate.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ōkamisan no Kami
- Kami enshrined
- Ōkamisan no Kami, Sea God
- Coordinates
- 36.0517432, 138.5218552
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit during sunrise or sunset when the light casts a golden glow over the surrounding woods.
Cultural notes
New Sea Shrine is associated with the sea god, Ōkamisan no Kami, who is revered for his power to ensure safe fishing and prosperous harvests. The shrine is also known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, which bloom in early spring. During the spring equinox (March 20-23), visitors can witness a traditional festival honoring the arrival of spring.
Historical note
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