The Tenno Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is dedicated to Amaterasu Omikami, the Sun Goddess and the most important Shinto deity. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period's influence on Japanese design, with a five-story pagoda and vermilion torii gate. The shrine grounds feature various gardens, including a beautiful maple forest, which are said to have been created by Amaterasu herself.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 39.7462887, 140.110456
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit at dawn or dusk when the maple leaves are reflected in the calm waters of the adjacent pond.
Cultural notes
As Amaterasu Omikami is the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family, visitors can experience a traditional tea ceremony and participate in the annual Matsuri festival to honor the goddess's virtues.
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE during the Nara period, making it one of Japan's oldest shrines.