Located in the prefecture of Saitama,厳島神社 is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. The shrine's main hall is adorned with a large wooden beam known as 'tsuru-bashi,' which spans over 15 meters and is said to be the oldest and longest in Japan. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens and grounds, which include several historic buildings and artifacts from different periods of Japanese history.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Susano-o
- Coordinates
- 35.8971052, 139.498675
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's architecture, visit at dawn or dusk when the sunlight filters through the tsuru-bashi, creating a breathtaking effect.
Cultural notes
厳島神社 is closely associated with the legend of Amaterasu, who is said to have hidden in the cave of Ame-no-Iwa. According to myth, the shrine's main hall was built by a local lord who prayed for protection from the goddess. The shrine also hosts an annual 'Matsuri,' or festival, where locals dress up in traditional costumes and perform rituals to honor Amaterasu.
Historical note
Founded in 1623 during the Edo period.