Nihon Matsuri, a grand festival held annually at Taito Shrine in Tokyo, shares cultural ties with Heian-era festivals celebrated here at Hitachi no Mae Shrine in Ibaraki Prefecture. This sacred site, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu and the god of thunder Susanoo, embodies traditional Shinto values. Visitors can experience the shrine's unique architecture and serene gardens.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu, Susanoo
- Coordinates
- 35.7752114, 140.1091584
Visitor tip
To avoid long lines, visit the shrine early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not directly overhead.
Cultural notes
This shrine is famous for its association with the legend of Amaterasu's descent into the underworld. According to myth, the god Susanoo was sent from heaven after a quarrel with his sister Amaterasu and subsequently broke off a portion of the mountain where he lived to create Lake Hitachi.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), it was originally known as Hitachi no Mae Shrine and enshrined the kami Susanoo.