藤樹神社, located in the city of Karuizawa, Shiga Prefecture, is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, known as 'the tree spirit'. This shrine is famous for its beautiful autumn foliage and is said to be the place where Susanoo-no-Mikoto was born. The shrine's architecture reflects its historical significance, with a main hall built in the Heian period and a sacred tree believed to be over 800 years old.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo-no-Mikoto, Ōkuninushi-no-Kami
- Coordinates
- 35.3244524, 136.0309047
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the autumn foliage, visit the shrine during the peak season in late November and early December, and try to make an offering of sake or rice wine to the deity.
Cultural notes
As one of Japan's oldest shrines,藤樹神社 has a rich cultural heritage. The shrine is also famous for its 'festival of lanterns', where hundreds of paper lanterns are lit up around the shrine grounds, creating a beautiful and magical atmosphere.
Historical note
The shrine dates back to the 8th century when it was originally established as a sacred site for Susanoo-no-Mikoto.