Horie Outa Shrine, located in the town of Kuroishi in Niigata Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami (spirits) believed to inhabit the surrounding mountains and forests. The shrine's name, Horie, translates to 'river mouth' or 'river confluence', likely referring to its location at the confluence of two rivers. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional Japanese style, with a sturdy torii gate and a rectangular main hall.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 37.7478138, 139.1166677
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's natural surroundings, visit during the cherry blossom season or autumn foliage, when the surrounding forests are ablaze with color. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it by the river.
Cultural notes
In Niigata Prefecture, shrines like Horie Outa Shrine often serve as community gathering spaces for locals to celebrate festivals such as the Setsubun bean-throwing festival, which marks the beginning of spring. At this festival, visitors can also pray for good luck and prosperity.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built in the Edo period (1603-1867) as a humble shrine dedicated to the god of the local river and its surrounding mountains.