Kōrō no Shinshū, located in the heart of Zao Onsen town in Miyagi Prefecture, is a sacred Shinto site dedicated to the worship of Ryūjin, the God of the Sea and Lord of the Dragon. Established in 1456 during the Muromachi period, this ancient shrine has been an integral part of the local community for centuries. Visitors can still observe traditional festivals and ceremonies, including the annual Obon festival, which honors the spirits of their ancestors.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryūjin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryūjin
- Coordinates
- 38.2770867, 140.8648448
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the serene atmosphere of Kōrō no Shinshū, visit at dawn when the temple grounds are still shrouded in mist and the sacred water from the nearby hot springs is palpable.
Cultural notes
Kōrō no Shinshū is believed to be one of the few Shinto shrines that has managed to retain its original mythological connections. According to local legend, the shrine's founder was said to have caught a giant fish with his bare hands, which is thought to be the origin of Ryūjin's association with this site.
Historical note
The shrine was originally constructed as a humble Shinto shrine dedicated to Ryūjin but was later rebuilt during the Edo period.