Azuma Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Kanagawa Prefecture that venerates Yamato Takeru no Mikoto, a legendary prince from Japanese mythology. The shrine is associated with the tragic love story between Yamato Takeru and his wife Oto Tachibana Hime, who sacrificed herself to calm the seas during their journey.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Yamato Takeru no Mikoto
- Founding
- Ancient period
- Coordinates
- 35.4407287, 139.3315846
Visitor tip
Visit during cherry blossom season when the shrine grounds are particularly beautiful and peaceful.
Cultural notes
Azuma shrines throughout eastern Japan commemorate the legendary tale of Yamato Takeru and often serve as symbols of devoted love and sacrifice. The story represents themes of duty, sacrifice, and the tragic nature of heroic legends in Japanese mythology.
Historical note
The shrine's name 'Azuma' comes from the famous legend where Yamato Takeru, mourning his beloved wife Oto Tachibana Hime who had thrown herself into the sea to save him and his crew, cried out 'Azuma haya' (Alas, my wife!). This became the origin of the name for the eastern provinces of Japan.