The Monkey's Stone Shrine, dedicated to Hakumen Okamigusa no Mikoto, the Shinto god of fertility and prosperity. Located in Akita Prefecture, this shrine is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan, with a history dating back to the Nara period (710-794 CE). The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese style, with a simple yet elegant design. Visitors can see the stone monument that serves as the shrine's main structure, and experience the serene atmosphere of the surrounding forest.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Hakumen Okamigusa no Mikoto
- Kami enshrined
- Hakumen Okamigusa no Mikoto
- Coordinates
- 39.5978814, 140.2314755
Visitor tip
Be sure to visit the nearby Akita Prefectural Park for a scenic hike and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Cultural notes
Hakumen Okamigusa no Mikoto is often invoked for fertility and prosperity. The shrine also hosts a festival in autumn, where participants dress in traditional costumes and perform traditional dances to honor the god.
Historical note
The shrine is believed to have been established during the Nara period by Emperor Shomu in 746 CE.