Located in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, East Plain Bear God Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and wildlife. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional Japanese buildings and wooden structures. Its location near the Kitakata River adds to its natural beauty.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Taka no Okami
- Kami enshrined
- Bear God, Taka no Okami
- Coordinates
- 36.0614909, 139.4126594
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine during the annual autumn leaf festival to see the forest ablaze with color. Be sure to bring a small amount of rice to make a prayer offering at the shrine's torii gate.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the Yamatano Orochi, a giant serpent said to have been defeated by the sun goddess Amaterasu. Local legend holds that the shrine's bear deity was the protector of the forest and its creatures.
Historical note
Established in the Edo period, this shrine has been an important center for local worship and festivals.