Located in Nagasaki Prefecture, 房隠大権現 Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of prosperity and good fortune. The shrine's name translates to 'Hiding Place of the Great Deity.' It is one of Japan's oldest shrines, with records dating back to 718 CE. The shrine's architecture reflects the Heian period style, featuring a large torii gate and a wooden hall adorned with carvings. Visitors can explore the shrine grounds, which include a museum showcasing the history of the shrine and its significance in Japanese culture.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- null
- Kami enshrined
- null
- Coordinates
- 32.7584251, 129.9109696
Visitor tip
To fully appreciate the shrine's beauty, visit during cherry blossom season (March-April) or autumn foliage (November-December), when the surrounding trees display vibrant colors.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the mythology of the Kami of the sea, Amagi-no-Mikoto, who is said to have protected the city of Nagasaki from pirate attacks. During the annual 'Ura-Matsuri' festival, visitors can witness a ritual reenactment of this mythological event.
Historical note
The shrine was originally built as a sacred place for the ruling samurai family of Nagasaki, and it has been recognized as a national treasure since 1951.