Located in the scenic prefecture of Ibaraki, Star Temple Shrine (Tsurugi-miya Jinja) is dedicated to the Shinto deity Susanoo no Mikoto and his brother, Amaterasu no Mikoto's consort, Otohime. The shrine's name is derived from a Japanese folktale where a star falls from the sky and creates a new celestial body. Visitors can admire the shrine's traditional architecture, including its iconic torii gate and five-story pagoda.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo no Mikoto, Otohime
- Coordinates
- 36.380148, 139.831037
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's serene atmosphere, visit early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight filters through the torii gate's latticework, casting an ethereal glow on the grounds.
Cultural notes
In Japanese folklore, Susanoo no Mikoto is often depicted as a powerful and mischievous god. The shrine's association with stars and celestial bodies reflects this mythological theme. Locals also celebrate the Obon festival here, honoring the spirits of their ancestors and family members.
Historical note
The shrine was originally constructed during the Edo period (1603-1867) in the style of a kamakura-zukuri shrine. Over time, it has undergone renovations and restorations to maintain its traditional architecture.