Located in the town of Kikugawa, Shizuoka Prefecture, 浅間愛鷹神社 (Ashinaga Yatagarasu Shrine) is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the mythical bird Yamata no Orochi and the god of rice, Hachiman. The shrine is famous for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture. According to legend, the shrine was built by a goddess who created the town's foundation stone, known as 'ashinaga', from her own breast. Today, visitors can walk through the tranquil gardens, admire the shrine's wooden structures, and experience the rich history of this ancient Shinto site.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamata no Orochi, Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Yamata no Orochi, Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.1336342, 138.7668595
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the gardens, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and warm, allowing you to see the intricate details of the traditional landscaping.
Cultural notes
The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Shizuoka Province. The main hall is dedicated to Hachiman, while Yamata no Orochi is honored in a separate shrine within the complex. During the autumn festival (Koyo), visitors can enjoy the stunning fall foliage and witness traditional dances performed at the shrine.
Historical note
The shrine was originally established in 1593 and has undergone several renovations throughout its history.