High-ranking Shinto priest, Matsumoto no Yasumaro, is said to have established the shrine in 701 CE. Dedicated to the deity of light and wisdom, it has been an important center for education and spiritual guidance. Visitors can still see a large stone statue of Matsumoto no Yasumaro, known as 'Hatafuda-gaeshi,' near the shrine's entrance.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hatafuda
- Kami enshrined
- Hatafuda
- Coordinates
- 39.723298, 141.142706
Visitor tip
Visit during the autumnal equinox festival to witness the shrine's beautiful vermilion torii gate, which is especially vibrant against the backdrop of the changing leaves.
Cultural notes
This shrine is associated with the kami, Hatafuda, who is revered as a deity of light and wisdom. The shrine also has connections to the mythology of the Japanese sword, with legend having it that Matsumoto no Yasumaro forged a sword for Emperor Sushun.
Historical note
701 CE