Located in the city of Kanazawa, Higashi Chaya District's Minamizuka neighborhood, the Shiren no Miya Shrine is dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and knowledge, Benbu no Tsukuyomi. Its unique architecture, with a single main hall covered by a shoji screen made from rice paper, reflects its historical significance as a major center for study during the Edo period. The shrine's interior contains many ancient artifacts, including old scrolls and a sacred mirror used in rituals.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Benbu no Tsukuyomi
- Kami enshrined
- Benbu no Tsukuyomi
- Coordinates
- 35.9254433, 137.1980972
Visitor tip
For visitors with cameras, be mindful of the strict rules regarding photography; no flash or selfie sticks allowed, especially during rituals.
Cultural notes
Minamizuka Shrine is closely associated with the Koka school of Japanese literature, which flourished in this area from the late Edo period until the early Meiji era. The shrine also holds an annual festival honoring Tsukuyomi, where participants dress up in traditional costumes and reenact the god's mythological exploits.
Historical note
The shrine was established in 1642 by Tokugawa Iemasa as a way to promote education and knowledge.