Suwagami-sha is a Shinto shrine located in the Chūshū region of Japan, dedicated to the kami Suwa no Okami. The shrine was originally built in 718 during the Nara period and rebuilt several times throughout its history. Its current structure dates back to the Edo period. The shrine is famous for its distinctive curved roof and ornate torii gate, which are said to have been constructed by the renowned carpenter Tōkū.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Suwa no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Suwa no Okami, Uzume, Hachiman
- Coordinates
- 35.2612805, 139.73063
Visitor tip
For a unique perspective on the shrine, visit at dawn when the sun rises over the torii gate, casting an otherworldly glow over the complex.
Cultural notes
Suwagami-sha is closely associated with the mythology of the Suwa River, which flows through Chiba Prefecture. The shrine's location at a sacred confluence point between the river and the surrounding landscape is believed to amplify the power of the kami. Visitors can participate in traditional festivals held during the spring and autumn equinoxes, known as 'sai,' which are marked by offerings and rituals to ensure bountiful harvests and good fortune.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in 718 during the Nara period.