Pen-tsuka Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of literacy and poetry. The shrine's name, 'pen塚,' literally translates to 'stack of pens.' According to local legend, the shrine was founded by a former daimyo (feudal lord) who sought to promote education and the arts. Today, the shrine is renowned for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- Hachiman, Suijin
- Coordinates
- 39.7246081, 140.0964163
Visitor tip
Visitors can try their hand at traditional Japanese calligraphy in the shrine's designated area.
Cultural notes
Pen-tsuka Shrine is often visited by students and writers seeking inspiration for their creative pursuits. The shrine's gardens feature a beautiful 'tsukubai' (water basin) for purification, as well as several stone monuments dedicated to the memory of famous poets from Akita Prefecture.
Historical note
The shrine's origins date back to the Heian period (794-1185), although its current structure was built during the Edo period (1603-1868).