Tennamatsu-ji Shrine, located in Kyoto, is one of the oldest and most revered Shinto shrines dedicated to the Amaterasu Omoshiro, the sun goddess. The shrine's architecture reflects a mix of traditional Japanese styles, with a wooden torii gate and tiled roofs dating back to the 7th century. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include several courtyards and gardens, as well as the nearby Kyoto Imperial Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omoshiro
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu Omoshiro
- Coordinates
- 34.8473627, 135.5110442
Visitor tip
To avoid lines, visit the shrine at dawn or late afternoon when it's less crowded. Be sure to take a photo with the beautiful vermilion torii gate as a backdrop!
Cultural notes
Tennamatsu-ji Shrine is closely associated with the mythology of the sun goddess Amaterasu and the imperial family. The shrine also hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival in spring and the Star Festival in summer. Notable architectural features include the five-story pagoda and the large bronze bell.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in the early Heian period (794-1185 CE) during the reign of Emperor Kanmu.