Love Goddess Shrine in Tohoku region, Iwate Prefecture, is dedicated to Benzaiten, the Shinto goddess of beauty, music, and poetry. The shrine's main hall, Haiden, features a distinctive hipped roof inspired by Edo-period architecture, while the outer shrine, Honden, boasts a more traditional Kamakura-style design. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, visit the adjacent Izumo Taisha Shrine, or take in the sunset at nearby Aomori Bay.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Benzaiten
- Kami enshrined
- Benzaiten
- Coordinates
- 39.8412357, 141.1696976
Visitor tip
To fully experience the shrine's serene atmosphere, arrive early morning or late afternoon when possible and take a stroll along the nearby Aomori Bay waterfront path.
Cultural notes
In Iwate Prefecture, Ai Tate no Kami Shrine is one of the three oldest shrines in Japan, rivaling those in Honshu. The shrine's association with Benzaiten is well-documented; the goddess is believed to have been instrumental in bringing beautiful spring weather and fertile soil to the area.
Historical note
Founded during the Heian period (794-1185 CE), Ai Tate no Kami Shrine has continued to thrive for over a thousand years.