Located in the heart of Akita, the Shrine of the Kago (神輿庫) is a Shinto sanctuary dedicated to the worship of Izanagi and Izanami, the primordial deities who created Japan. The shrine's architecture reflects its humble origins as a resting place for the kago, or divine palanquin, which carried the gods during their descent from heaven.
- Religion
- shinto
- Enshrined kami
- Izanagi, Izanami
- Kami enshrined
- Izanagi, Izanami
- Coordinates
- 39.526965, 140.2308804
Visitor tip
Visitors can honor the shrine by leaving offerings of rice and sake to express gratitude for the bounty of nature.
Cultural notes
The Shrine of the Kago is closely tied to the legend of Izanagi, who is said to have created the islands of Japan and then returned to heaven. The shrine's unique architecture features a rectangular shape with two main halls and a large torii gate. During the annual 'Akita Sanzan' festival, locals reenact the myth of Izanagi's journey, adding to the shrine's significance.
Historical note
Founded in 1664