Nara-period Kofun-style shrine, dedicated to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu and the Shinto god Susanoo, located near the Kumano River in what is now western Kyoto Prefecture. The shrine's architecture is characterized by a complex system of vermilion torii gates, each representing one of the 33,000 'gates' from Mount Fuji. The shrine grounds feature stunning natural scenery, including ancient cedar trees and picturesque rock formations.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Susanoo
- Kami enshrined
- Susanoo, Amaterasu
- Coordinates
- 35.4163718, 135.6785632
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's scenic beauty, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset when the surrounding mountains are bathed in golden light.
Cultural notes
The Kumano region is home to numerous Shinto deities and supernatural beings known as 'yurei', which are believed to inhabit the sacred groves of the shrine. The shrine's torii gates are said to be particularly effective at warding off evil spirits.
Historical note
Founded in 718 CE during the Asuka period, making it one of Japan's oldest shrines.