Star Temple Shrine, located in the city of Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of the heavens and fertility, Amaterasu Omikami. The shrine's name, 'star' (hoshimaya), refers to its association with the celestial bodies. According to local legend, the shrine was built on the site where an ancient star fell from the sky.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu Omikami
- Coordinates
- 36.42403, 139.857217
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine during the Star Festival (Tanabata) in July for a chance to make a wish and admire the beautiful lanterns displayed along the riverbank.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its stunning star-shaped torii gate, which is adorned with thousands of paper lanterns. The shrine's architecture also reflects its association with the heavens, featuring a characteristic Japanese garden design with an emphasis on celestial elements such as the yatai (heavenly food stall) and the tsukubai (water basin).
Historical note
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