Located in the mountains of Akita Prefecture, Harase Shrine is a small but picturesque Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the forest and nature. The shrine's architecture reflects its rural setting, with traditional Japanese-style buildings and a serene garden. Visitors can experience the tranquility of the shrine by walking through the forest trails and admiring the beautiful autumn foliage.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Inari
- Kami enshrined
- Inari, and other local kami
- Coordinates
- 39.9822018, 140.4061127
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the beauty of the shrine, visitors should arrive early in the morning to witness the sunrise over the forest, which is said to bring good luck.
Cultural notes
Harase Shrine is associated with the mythological figure of Inari Okami, the kami of rice and fertility. During the autumnal equinox festival (Tsukimi), shrine visitors can enjoy traditional foods such as sake and Japanese sweets while admiring the shrine's beautiful fall colors.
Historical note
The shrine was rebuilt in the late Heian period (12th century), and its current structure dates back to the Edo period (17th-19th centuries).