Inagoe Shrine, located in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest and most revered Shinto shrines. Dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, it has been an important center of worship and spiritual guidance for over 700 years. The shrine's architecture reflects its long history, with a series of wooden halls constructed in the Heian period, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and serene ponds. Visitors can experience the tranquil atmosphere of the shrine by walking along the winding paths or taking a boat ride on the Shichimai no miizu (Six-Storied Pond).
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Osonae
- Coordinates
- 34.8108544, 132.8464144
Visitor tip
To avoid crowds, visit Inagoe Shrine early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Take a stroll around the Six-Storied Pond and admire the cherry blossoms in spring for an unforgettable experience.
Cultural notes
Inagoe Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of the sun goddess Amaterasu. According to legend, the shrine's founder, a local daimyo, built the shrine to honor Amaterasu after she appeared to him in a dream. The shrine also hosts an annual festival called the Inagoe Matsuri, which features traditional dances and performances. Visitors can participate in the ritual purification ceremony, known as 'misogi,' by washing their hands at the shrine's sacred well.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 757 AD during the Asuka period, making it one of Japan's oldest shrines.