External Forest Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Kawanehon, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. Dedicated to the kami of the forest and its inhabitants, it is believed to have been built around the 8th century during the Nara period. The shrine's architecture reflects the traditional style of Japanese wooden shrines, with a large torii gate and a main hall covered in tatami mats. Visitors can explore the shrine's serene gardens and forest paths, which are said to be inhabited by various forest spirits.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 35.1762173, 138.1200295
Visitor tip
To avoid getting lost in the forest, take a map and follow the well-marked path leading to the torii gate.
Cultural notes
The External Forest Shrine is associated with the local legend of Urashima Taro, who visited the shrine before his ill-fated journey to the underwater palace of the Dragon King. The shrine's gardens also feature a statue of the forest spirit 'Ko-no-hana,' which is said to be responsible for the blooming of cherry blossoms.
Historical note
The shrine is believed to have been built during the Nara period (710-794 CE), although its exact date of founding is unknown.