Located in Gunma Prefecture, the Shinmei Red Castle Shrine is dedicated to the legendary founder of the Kamakura shogunate, Minamoto no Yoritomo's brother, Sanetomo, and also enshrines the god of war, Hachiman. The shrine is famous for its striking red-tiled roofing and beautiful garden. It is said that the shrine's wooden structure dates back to the 12th century and has been rebuilt several times over the centuries.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hachiman
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Sanetomo
- Coordinates
- 36.3672528, 139.1676494
Visitor tip
To appreciate the shrine's beautiful architecture, visit during the spring cherry blossom season or autumn foliage.
Cultural notes
The shrine is famous for its historical connection to the Kamakura period and is said to be a sacred site of the Red Castle, where Sanetomo is believed to have established his capital. The shrine also hosts an annual Hachiman Festival in May to celebrate the god of war.
Historical note
The shrine was originally established in 1192 as a temple dedicated to Hachiman, but it was later converted into a Shinto shrine in 1606.