Located in Akita Prefecture, the Tenmoku Shrine is dedicated to Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess and one of the most important deities in Japanese mythology. The shrine's name literally translates to 'the imperial heavenly kami shrine'. As one of the oldest shrines in Japan, it has a long history dating back to the 7th century. The shrine complex includes several buildings with distinctive wooden architecture from the Muromachi period.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Amaterasu
- Kami enshrined
- Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 39.6935811, 140.2753416
Visitor tip
Visit the Tenmoku Shrine at dawn or dusk for a serene atmosphere, and take note of the intricate wooden carvings adorning the shrine's structures.
Cultural notes
The Tenmoku Shrine is notable for its association with Amaterasu Omikami, who is said to reside in the heavens. The shrine also holds a significant place in Japanese mythology as the ancestral home of the Imperial Family.
Historical note
Established during the Nara period (710-794 CE),