Located in the historic town of Matsue, Miyajima Island in Shimane Prefecture is home to the revered early-morning grain god shrine of Asahiyama Shrine's neighboring shrine, Oikunisan, and the more widely known Asahiyama Shrine in nearby Izumo City. The Asahiyama Shrine in Shimane Prefecture is one of the oldest Shinto shrines on Miyajima Island, founded in 720 AD by the legendary Emperor Junshi's wife, Queen Shōtoku. The shrine enshrines the kami Yamabiko no Okami and the god of agriculture, rice and fertility, with the addition of 8 other deities associated with the surrounding area. The Asahiyama Shrine is also home to 3 main festivals annually: Aki Matsuri (Autumn Festival), Ohina Matsuri (Daughter's Day), and Yobitsumatsuri (Return from Foreign Lands).
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamabiko no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Yamabiko no Okami, Other deities associated with agriculture, fertility
- Coordinates
- 34.4138133, 132.4762748
Visitor tip
For a unique visitor experience, visit during Aki Matsuri and participate in the traditional bonfire festival at dusk.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its beautiful architecture, which features a five-story pagoda and a main hall with a vermilion roof. The Asahiyama Shrine's festivals are highly regarded throughout Japan, drawing visitors from all over the country. According to legend, the shrine was originally built on the site of an ancient earthwork called 'Ōno- no-Kanai,' and its connection to this sacred earth is still commemorated during the Yobitsumatsuri festival.
Historical note
Founded in 720 AD by the legendary Emperor Junshi's wife, Queen Shōtoku.