Located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Three-Faced Mountain Shrine is a sacred site dedicated to the kami, Ryūjin, the dragon god of the sea and ruler of the oceans. The shrine's name reflects its unique architectural style, with three distinct shrines: the Ryūgū Jinja, the Ōno-michi shrine, and the Hasedera temple.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Ryūjin
- Kami enshrined
- Ryūjin
- Coordinates
- 36.045845, 139.5752429
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's unique architecture, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and take advantage of the soft golden light.
Cultural notes
Ryūjin is often depicted as a dragon with three faces, symbolizing its control over the sea's power. The shrine celebrates the annual Ryūgū no Matsuri festival, which honors the god's benevolence and features traditional music, dance, and offerings to the kami.
Historical note
The shrine was built in the Edo period (1603-1868), specifically during the reign of Tokugawa Iemitsu.