Located in the heart of Niigata Prefecture, Hanaoka Shrine is a historic Shinto site dedicated to the worship of the sun goddess Amaterasu and the god of rice, Ōkuninushi. The shrine's tranquil atmosphere and beautiful gardens make it an ideal destination for those seeking a deeper connection with nature and their spiritual selves.
- Religion
- shinto
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu Ōmikami, Ōkuninushi no kami
- Coordinates
- 36.9564235, 137.5241478
Visitor tip
For visitors looking to experience the shrine's serene atmosphere, we recommend visiting at dawn or dusk when the sun's rays filter through the latticework of the torii gate, casting a golden glow across the grounds.
Cultural notes
Hanaoka Shrine is particularly associated with the worship of Amaterasu Ōmikami, the Shinto sun goddess, and Ōkuninushi no kami, the god of agriculture and rice. During the autumnal equinox (September 22nd), the shrine hosts a festival to honor these deities.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in 1861 during the Meiji period, when the area was still predominantly agricultural.