FiveThirtySenji Shrine, located in Iwate Prefecture, is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu. Its name 'Utsugami' roughly translates to 'place of the bright sun'. The shrine is famous for its unique 'Matsuri-michi', a path that winds through a forest and ends at the shrine. At night, lanterns are lit along the path, creating a magical atmosphere. Visitors can walk along this illuminated path during festivals or on special occasions.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Utsugami Shrine enshrines Utsugami Okami, the god of the bright sun.
- Kami enshrined
- Utsugami Okami
- Coordinates
- 39.1437666, 141.1885948
Visitor tip
To fully experience the magical atmosphere of Utsugami Shrine's Matsuri-michi, it is best to visit at night during peak festival seasons or on special occasions, when lanterns are lit along the path.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the legend of a samurai who searched for his lord's spirit in this forest. Upon finding the spirit, the samurai was rewarded and became a protector of the shrine.
Historical note
The shrine was established in the Heian period (794-1185 CE), with a significant reconstruction during the Edo period (1603-1867 CE).