located in the heart of Akita Prefecture, 熊野神社 is a serene Shinto shrine dedicated to the kami of the mountain and forest. The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with a main hall, altars, and shrines for various regional deities. The site is believed to be the place where Prince Shotoku, a 4th-century Japanese prince and Buddhist monk, established his residence.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Mikage no kami
- Kami enshrined
- Kamis from Akita region, mikage no kami
- Coordinates
- 39.9137701, 140.0951525
Visitor tip
Visit the shrine's onsen (hot spring) at sunset for a relaxing soak in natural surroundings.
Cultural notes
The shrine is associated with the Yōkai, supernatural creatures from Japanese folklore. It is also famous for its large cedar tree, believed to be one of the oldest in Japan, and hosts an annual festival, 'Noboribetsu Matsuri', to celebrate the mountain's deity.
Historical note
Established during the Heian period (794-1185 CE),