Located in Gunma Prefecture, Tenryūben Calabash Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune, Ryūjin, and the calabash fruit god, Tsukimori-no-kami, as well as the benevolent dragon deity, Tennō. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a distinctive gate and torii that date back to the Edo period. Visitors can participate in rituals and ceremonies during the annual New Year festival, known as 'Omisoka'.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 36.5336759, 139.1850281
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visitors are advised to arrive early at the shrine's gates before sunrise, when it is quiet and peaceful.
Cultural notes
Tenryūben Calabash Shrine is particularly famous for its festival of the 'Ryōkan' dragon dance, which features a large calabash-shaped drum used by the shrine's performers. This unique tradition is believed to have originated during the Edo period, when calabashes were considered sacred objects.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1711 during the Edo period.