Located in the heart of Nagano, Tennozu Okamisan Shrine is dedicated to the Amaterasu Omikami, the Shinto sun goddess and the most important deity in the Japanese pantheon. The shrine was built in 1674 during the Edo period to commemorate the founding of the Nagano daimyo, Lord Tokudai Ieyoshi. With its unique blend of traditional architecture and natural surroundings, Tennozu Okamisan Shrine is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Shinto culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 36.6420969, 138.2476134
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's unique architecture, visit at dawn or dusk when the light streaming through the torii gate highlights its intricate carvings and ornate details.
Cultural notes
As a Shinto shrine dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, Tennozu Okamisan Shrine is closely tied to the mythology of the Japanese imperial family. According to legend, Amaterasu sent her grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, to earth to establish the first Shinto shrines and govern the people.
Historical note
The shrine was built in 1674 during the Edo period to commemorate the founding of the Nagano daimyo.