Tennan Shrine, located in the picturesque town of Iwata in Shizuoka Prefecture, is a sacred site dedicated to the god of thunder, Raijin, and his consorts, Benzaiten and Susanoo. The shrine's beautiful architecture reflects its origins as a regional shinto site, with a distinctive torii gate flanked by two stone lanterns. Visitors can explore the shrine's tranquil gardens, adorned with vibrant autumn foliage, or participate in seasonal festivals such as the Tenno Festival to honor Raijin.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Raijin
- Kami enshrined
- Raijin, Benzaiten, Susanoo
- Coordinates
- 34.6685702, 138.0140944
Visitor tip
For a unique perspective on the shrine, head to the nearby Iwata River and watch for the annual Setsubun festival procession, which features participants dressed in Raijin-themed costumes.
Cultural notes
As one of the oldest shrines in Shizuoka Prefecture, Tennan Shrine has deep connections to regional folklore and mythology. The shrine's torii gate is said to be a favorite resting place for the mythical bird, Tengu.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built during the Edo period (1603-1868) and has since been rebuilt several times due to fires and other disasters.