The Sanbo-ara Aragami no Makoto Shrine, located in Okayama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the protection of travelers and merchants. Its name 'Sanbo-ara' roughly translates to 'Three Treasures' or 'Triple Treasure,' which may refer to the three treasures of Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism: the Buddha's teachings, the god Vishnu's avatar Krishna, and the Taoist sage Lao Tzu. The shrine's primary enshrined deity is Aragami no Makoto, a Shinto kami associated with travelers and commerce.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Aragami no Makoto
- Kami enshrined
- Aragami no Makoto
- Coordinates
- 34.5351764, 133.6606367
Visitor tip
To maximize your visit, arrive at dawn when the shrine's torii gate is still covered with dew, making for a picturesque photo opportunity. Be respectful and take a moment to bow upon entering the shrine grounds.
Cultural notes
Aragami no Makoto kami is often depicted as a guardian of commerce and travelers. The shrine celebrates the Sanbo-ara Matsuri festival in July, where locals honor the triple treasures by offering food, drinks, and prayers for good fortune and safe passage. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Okayama-style buildings with tiled roofs and sliding doors.
Historical note
The Sanbo-ara Shrine was established during the Edo period (1603-1868), likely in the late 17th or early 18th century, to serve as a protector of merchants and travelers on the route between Okayama and other provinces.