The Shinmei Shrine, located in Akita Prefecture, is dedicated to the kami of the rice and sake industries. This Shinto shrine has a long history dating back to the Edo period, during which it was established as a major center for the production of Japanese liquor. The shrine's architecture reflects its important role in local agriculture, featuring traditional wooden structures and a pond that serves as a sacred source of water.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Tadokabuto
- Kami enshrined
- Tadokabuto, Okami, Kami-maru
- Coordinates
- 40.0433807, 140.1739471
Visitor tip
To show respect for the shrine and its kami, visitors should remove their shoes before entering the main hall and offer a small donation of sake or rice at the designated box.
Cultural notes
As a major center for sake production, the Shinmei Shrine is associated with the mythology surrounding the creation of sake from rice. According to local legend, a kami was said to have created the first batch of sake using grains from this shrine.
Historical note
The shrine was founded in the 17th century during the Edo period.