Nemuro Jinja, also known as Okurayama-son, is a Shinto shrine located in the town of Nenokata, Akita Prefecture. Dedicated to the god of agriculture, Kumano no okami, it is believed to be one of the oldest shrines on the Japanese island of Honshu. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Ryukyu and Edo periods styles, featuring a vermilion torii gate and a two-story wooden main hall. The grounds are famous for their beautiful plum blossoms in spring.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Kumano no okami
- Kami enshrined
- Kumano no okami
- Coordinates
- 39.7102053, 140.1636773
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, arrive early to witness the sunrise over Okurayama Mountain, and take a moment to admire the plum blossoms before they bloom.
Cultural notes
This shrine is famous for its annual Plum Blossom Festival (, umeyoshi), which attracts thousands of visitors each year. According to local legend, Kumano no okami was said to have appeared to the first priest of the shrine in the form of a bear, leading to the deity's association with bears and agriculture.
Historical note
Founded during the Nara period (710-794 CE), Nemuro Jinja is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan.